Michigan State's exit from the Big Ten Tournament wasn't the result it wanted, but it could pay off in the end.

The showdown between two well-coached, hungry teams playing at a high level was a reinforcing sign that March hoops have arrived, and The Spartans were reminded of how costly even the simplest mistakes can prove.

Wisconsin basketball fell one minute short of a Big Ten Tournament title on Sunday afternoon, narrowly falling to the Michigan Wolverines 59-53.

We are down to four in the Big Ten Tournament, as Wisconsin and Michigan State square off in the first semifinal from Indianapolis on Saturday. The Spartans, who won the conference regular season title,

Michigan State guard Tre Holloman (5) shoots on Wisconsin guard Jack Janicki (33) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the semifinals of the Big Ten Conference tournament in Indianapolis, Saturday, March 15, 2025. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy) AP

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