A Basketball Legacy: Michigan State University and Tom Izzo
No conversation about basketball in Lansing is complete without mentioning Michigan State University and its legendary men's basketball coach, Tom Izzo. As a record-breaking Big Ten coach, Izzo has led the Spartans to multiple conference championships, Final Four appearances, and a national title. His leadership has turned MSU into a powerhouse, attracting fans and aspiring players from across the country. The Breslin Student Events Center, home to MSU's men's and women's basketball teams, isn’t just a venue—it’s a stage where history is made.
Major Basketball Events in Greater Lansing
In addition to MSU's thrilling games, Greater Lansing hosts some of the biggest basketball tournaments in the state. Whether you’re a player, coach, or spectator, these events bring top-tier competition and an electric atmosphere:
MHSAA State Finals (Boys & Girls) – The best high school teams in Michigan battle for state titles, bringing thousands of fans and future collegiate stars to Lansing.
Girls Spartan Showcase & Boys Spartan Showcase – One of the top youth basketball events in the region brings more than 300 teams and more than 4,000 elementary and middle school athletes from several states to compete.
Moneyball Tournaments – Featuring high-level competition, these tournaments attract skilled players from across the region.
The 15,000-seat Breslin Student Events Center is located on the picturesque campus of Michigan State University. Home of the MSU men's and women's Spartan basketball teams, the Center features state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, private meeting rooms, and more than 3,500 parking spaces within two blocks.
Great Lakes Christian College offers a modern, well-maintained facility with a fantastic court that can accommodate basketball, volleyball, and other events that require court space.
IM West is the largest of the four Recreational Sports and Fitness Services facilities on the campus of Michigan State University. The 190,000-square-foot facility houses a turf arena, as well as the Sports Arena, a multipurpose gym capable of seating 650 spectators.
Contact us to find out if Greater Lansing is the perfect destination for your tournament or sports event.