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ST LOUIS, MO - MARCH 18: Matt Van Dyk #30 of the Michigan State Spartans reacts after a basket in the first half against the Plenty of college basketball fans and folks who get paid to analyze the game questioned why the NCAA tournament selection committee didn’t make Michigan State a No. 1 seed in this year’s tournament.
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By Friday afternoon, that debate seemed like ancient history and a bit ridiculous in the wake of the Spartans’ shocking loss 90-81 to Middle-Tennessee, taking national player of the year candidate Denzel Valentine out of the tournament.
It was the first time a No. 15 seed has beaten a No. 2 seed since 2013 when Florida Gulf Coast started its memorable run to the Sweet 16 by beating Georgetown, but the Hoyas weren't considered a favorite for the national title that season the way the Spartans were this season.. It is the eighth time in history a No. 15 has beaten No. 2 in the tournament.
The Spartans (29-6) entered the tournament on a nine-game winning streak and hadn’t lost to an opponent outside the Big Ten Conference all season. They were coming off a Big Ten tournament title and might have overlooked the Blue Raiders.
The Spartans (29-6) entered the tournament on a nine-game winning streak and hadn’t lost to an opponent outside the Big Ten Conference all season. They were coming off a Big Ten tournament title and might have overlooked the Blue Raiders.
All five Middle-Tennessee starters scored in double figures led by forward Reggie Upshaw, who scored 21 and had his way inside against Michigan State’s big men. The Blue Raiders won the game by knocking down 11 of 19 3pointers and playing strong defense against Valentine and his teammates.
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