UCLA is on the brink of commencing its second season in the Big Ten. After securing seven championships in its debut year within the conference, the Bruins aim to enhance their performance this upcoming season. Before the start of UCLA’s second Big Ten season, Daily Bruin Sports will provide previews on football, basketball, and other leading programs from each institution.
Men’s Basketball
2024 record: 30-7, 17-3 Big Ten, Elite Eight appearance
Coach: Tom Izzo
Player to Watch: Jeremy Fears Jr.
This team exemplifies consistency.
Though Michigan State may not always achieve the top seed or possess the best record, as evidenced by their four straight seasons with double-digit losses prior to last year, playoff appearances are a given.
The program holds a remarkable NCAA tournament streak, now at 27 consecutive appearances, all under the guidance of the same coach.
As Michigan State’s all-time winningest coach, Tom Izzo has led the team to eleven Elite Eights and eight Final Fours, clinching the national championship in 2000. He recently guided the Spartans to their finest record in six years, securing a No. 1 seed for the NCAA tournament, ultimately ending their run in the Elite Eight, but they are expected to return strong next year.
Gymnastics
2024 record: 29-8, 8-1 Big Ten, NCAA Championship semifinal appearance
Coach: Mike Rowe
Player to Watch: Nikki Smith
Building dynasties takes time.
Michigan State gymnastics finished the 2025 season ranked No. 6 nationally, a record for the program, with a team NQS of 197.360, ranking fourth on vault and seventh on bars. They achieved a national championship appearance after a 37-year gap.
Under head coach Mike Rowe, who took over in 2017, the team has consistently ranked in the top 15 since 2022, improving from twelve seasons of sub-25 finishes.
Football
2024 record: 5-7, 3-6 Big Ten
Coach: Jonathan Smith
Player to Watch: Nick Marsh
Mid-table situations in an 18-team conference can be challenging.
Michigan State faced difficulties last season, ranking 11th in passing yards per game and struggling both in rushing defense and offense. Forecasts suggest another average season ahead.
Aidan Chiles, returning as quarterback, threw for 2,415 yards with a 59% completion rate in his first season. However, his 11 interceptions tied for the conference lead.
Women’s Basketball
2024 record: 22-10, 11-7 Big Ten, NCAA Tournament Second Round appearance
Coach: Robyn Fralick
Player to Watch: Grace VanSlooten
Significant changes can be risky.
Nevertheless, under Coach Robyn Fralick, who took the helm in 2023, Michigan State improved significantly from a 16-14 record in 2022-23 to a commendable 22-9 finish the following year.
With Grace VanSlooten returning as likely the main offensive contributor, having averaged 15.5 points and 7.3 rebounds per game last season, the program seems to be in a promising position as it heads into the new season.
