Michigan State’s men’s basketball team went on the road on Saturday to take on its in-state rival, the University of Michigan. Before the game got going, something far more important took place. The normally intense rivals came together, along with everyone at Michigan’s Crisler Center, to pay tribute to the victims of Monday’s tragic shooting that left four people (including the assailant) dead and five others wounded.
“Please join us in a moment of silence in recognition of this week’s horrific tragedy at Michigan State University. On behalf of the University of Michigan, we share our condolences for the lives lost, those critically injured and everyone impacted in the Spartan community,” Wolverines PA announcer, Anthony Bellino, said.
After the moment of silence, Michigan’s band performed Michigan State’s alma mater, “MSU Shadows.”
Michigan State’s Men’s Basketball Twitter account thanked the Wolverines for the tribute.
College basketball fans were similarly touched by the moving tribute from one rival to another.
Just a beautiful way for Michigan to pay tribute to Michigan State and the lives lost this past week.
Well done, Wolverines https://t.co/neItW5pgcx
— Trey Wallace (@TreyWallace_) February 19, 2023
Good job Michigan
https://t.co/gOoYdQqccK — Christy (@christyg1287) February 19, 2023
Saturday was the first game for the Spartans since the shooting. Wednesday’s game against Minnesota in East Lansing was postponed. Two days after the shooting, Michigan State coach Tom Izzo delivered an emotional speech at an on-campus vigil honoring the victims.
[Fox College Hoops on Twitter]