After going down early, Michigan State basketball survived a nail-biter vs. Illinois to stay undefeated and alone at the top if the Big Ten.

Michigan State's Jase Richardson (11), Frankie Fidler (8), Jaden Akins (3), and Tre Holloman (5) celebrate after defeating Illinois in an NCAA college basketball game, Sunday, Jan. 19, 2025, in East Lansing, Mich. (AP Photo/Al Goldis) AP

Alums, media and others across the college basketball landscape sounded off on the Spartans' win over the Illini

Facing its toughest test of the conference season Sunday, the No. 12 Michigan State men’s basketball team (16-2, 7-0 Big Ten) won a tightly contested game against No. 19 Illinois, 80-78 at Breslin Center. Taking advantage of foul trouble and making a number of finishes under contact and pressure, the Spartans remain atop the Big Ten standings.

TV channel, college basketball best bets, picks, predictions and how to watch No. 19 Illinois vs. No. 12 Michigan State on Sunday on CBS and Paramount+

The Spartans' 7-0 start in Big Ten play is their best since the 2018-19 season when they last played in the Final Four.

After going down early, Michigan State basketball survived a nail-biter vs. Illinois to stay undefeated and alone at the top if the Big Ten.

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No. 12 Michigan State came up with just enough plays down the stretch to hold on for an 80-78 win against No. 19 Illinois and remain the lone unbeaten team in the conference. The Spartans (16-2, 7-0 Big Ten) extended their longest winning streak in six years to 11 straight.

Michigan State men's basketball has entered the thick of the 2024-25 season, with 14 games remaining on the schedule. This upcoming slate is crucial for the Sp

Michigan State has now won 11 games in a row and move to 7-0 in the Big Ten. MSU will hit the road next Saturday to face Rutgers at Madison Square Garden.