25 Facts About Detroit Mercy Vs. Michigan State

Detroit Mercy vs. Michigan State: A Storied Rivalry

Detroit Mercy and Michigan State have a rich history in college sports. Their matchups are always exciting, filled with intense moments and unforgettable plays. Here are some intriguing facts about this rivalry.

1. Detroit Mercy, also known as the Titans, competes in the Horizon League.
2. Michigan State, known as the Spartans, is a member of the Big Ten Conference.
3. The rivalry dates back to the early 20th century, with their first recorded basketball game in 1909.
4. Both schools are located in Michigan, with Detroit Mercy in Detroit and Michigan State in East Lansing.
5. The Spartans have a larger student body, with over 50,000 students compared to Detroit Mercy's approximately 5,000.

Memorable Moments in Basketball

Basketball games between these two teams have produced some of the most memorable moments in college sports. Here are a few highlights.

6. In 1979, Michigan State, led by Magic Johnson, won the NCAA Championship.
7. Detroit Mercy's highest-scoring game against Michigan State was in 1997, where they scored 88 points.
8. The Spartans have made 23 consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances since 1998.
9. Detroit Mercy's Antoine Davis set a school record with 48 points in a single game in 2020.
10. The Titans have had 12 players drafted into the NBA, including Spencer Haywood.

Coaching Legends

Coaches play a pivotal role in shaping the teams and their legacies. Both schools have had their share of legendary coaches.

11. Tom Izzo, Michigan State's head coach since 1995, has led the Spartans to eight Final Four appearances.
12. Detroit Mercy's Dick Vitale, who coached from 1973 to 1977, later became a famous ESPN commentator.
13. Ray McCallum, another notable Detroit Mercy coach, led the Titans to the NCAA Tournament in 2012.
14. Jud Heathcote, who coached Michigan State from 1976 to 1995, won the NCAA Championship in 1979.
15. Perry Watson, a former Detroit Mercy coach, was known for his defensive strategies and led the team to multiple postseason appearances.

Football Face-Offs

While basketball often takes the spotlight, football games between these two schools have also been noteworthy.

16. Michigan State's football team has won six national championships.
17. Detroit Mercy discontinued its football program in 1964 due to financial constraints.
18. The Spartans' Spartan Stadium, built in 1923, can hold over 75,000 fans.
19. Detroit Mercy's football team once played at Titan Field, which had a much smaller capacity.
20. Despite not having a football team, Detroit Mercy's athletic department continues to support other sports programs.

Academic Achievements

Both universities pride themselves on academic excellence, producing graduates who excel in various fields.

21. Michigan State is known for its strong programs in business, education, and agriculture.
22. Detroit Mercy excels in law, dentistry, and engineering.
23. The Spartans have produced several Rhodes Scholars.
24. Detroit Mercy's School of Law is one of the oldest in Michigan, established in 1912.
25. Both universities offer extensive community service programs, encouraging students to give back to their communities.

Final Thoughts on Detroit Mercy vs. Michigan State

Detroit Mercy and Michigan State have a rich history in college sports. Detroit Mercy, known for its strong basketball program, has produced notable players like Spencer Haywood. Michigan State, on the other hand, boasts a powerhouse football team and a basketball program led by legendary coach Tom Izzo. Both schools have passionate fan bases and a commitment to academic excellence. While Detroit Mercy may not have the same level of national recognition as Michigan State, it has its own unique charm and achievements. Whether you're a fan of the Titans or the Spartans, there's no denying the impact both universities have had on college sports. From thrilling games to unforgettable moments, Detroit Mercy and Michigan State continue to make their mark. So, next time you catch a game, remember the history and pride behind these two great institutions.