The State Farm Champions Classic always delivers early-season drama, and the 2025 edition promises to be no different. On Tuesday night, two bluebloods collide as the No. 12 Kentucky Wildcats take on the No. 17 Michigan State Spartans at Madison Square Garden. With both programs navigating new rosters, high expectations, and early-season tests, this matchup is shaping into one of November’s most intriguing battles.
Kentucky enters the contest 3-1, having stumbled against rival Louisville a week earlier. Michigan State stands at 3-0, highlighted by a strong win over John Calipari’s Arkansas squad. With both teams eager to make a statement before conference play ramps up, here’s a deep look at the key players who could swing Tuesday’s showdown.
Players to Watch: Michigan State Spartans
1. Jaden Akins – Guard
Akins’ athleticism and two-way capability give Michigan State much-needed versatility on the perimeter. He’s taken a noticeable step forward as a shot creator this season, providing scoring bursts when the offense stalls. Against Kentucky’s length, Akins’ ability to get downhill — and defend Kentucky’s explosive guards — will be crucial.
2. Xavier Booker – Forward
Booker’s development has been one of the brightest stories in East Lansing. His improved physicality and confidence on the glass make him a legitimate matchup problem. Kentucky’s interior defense is still finding its identity, and Booker’s stretch-forward skillset could open up the floor for MSU.
3. Tre Holloman – Point Guard
Now fully trusted with running the offense, Holloman has excelled at maintaining tempo and limiting turnovers. His composure will be tested by Kentucky’s aggressive guards. If he can control the pace, Michigan State’s efficient style could tilt the game in their favor.
4. Carson Cooper – Center
Michigan State doesn’t need Cooper to dominate offensively; they need him to anchor the defense. His rim protection and rebounding will be vital as Kentucky’s frontcourt tries to establish itself early. If Cooper stays out of foul trouble, MSU’s defensive ceiling rises significantly.
Players to Watch: Kentucky Wildcats
1. Otega Oweh – Guard
The lone returning starter for Kentucky, Oweh is the early-season heart of a team filled with newcomers. His defensive intensity, slashing ability, and leadership make him Kentucky’s tone-setter. If the Wildcats need a big bucket or a momentum-turning stop, expect Oweh to be in the middle of it.
2. Amari Williams – Forward/Center
Williams brings SEC-ready strength and instincts to the paint. He’s Kentucky’s best rim protector and a reliable rebounder, but he’ll face a test against Michigan State’s physical front line. His ability to defend without fouling and finish around the rim may shape Kentucky’s interior success.
3. Billy Richmond – Wing
The freshman has quickly become one of Kentucky’s most exciting scoring options. Richmond thrives in transition and has shown flashes of elite athleticism. With MSU’s defense ranking 14th in KenPom’s adjusted efficiency, Richmond’s creativity could be a difference-maker.
4. Lamont Butler – Guard
A veteran presence in the backcourt, Butler brings defensive toughness and experience — both qualities Kentucky desperately needs given its reliance on freshmen and transfers. Butler will likely draw long stretches of guarding Akins or Holloman, making his performance key to slowing Michigan State’s attack.
Looking Ahead: Champions Classic Returns to Chicago in 2026
For fans planning ahead, ESPN Events recently confirmed that the Champions Classic will return to Chicago next season.
- Kentucky vs. Kansas
- Michigan State vs. Duke
- Date: November 10, 2026
- Venue: United Center
It will be the fifth time Chicago hosts the Classic, though the city hasn’t historically been kind to Kentucky (1-3 all-time there). The Wildcats hope next year brings a change of fortune — but first, they’ll look to improve their 6-8 all-time Champions Classic mark tonight in New York.
How to Watch Michigan State vs Kentucky
- Tipoff: 6:30 p.m. ET
- TV: ESPN (Dan Shulman, Jay Bilas, Kris Budden)
- Local Radio: UK Sports Network
- AM: 840 WHAS, 630 WLAP
- FM: 98.1 WBUL
- Online: iHeart Radio
- Sirius XM: Channel 84
- Location: Madison Square Garden
- Part of Doubleheader: Kansas vs. Duke follows at approx. 8:30 p.m. ET
College Gameday will broadcast live from MSG starting at 6 p.m. with Rece Davis, Jay Bilas, Seth Greenberg, Jay Williams, and Andraya Carter.
Prediction: Michigan State vs. Kentucky
Kentucky head coach Mark Pope admitted his team isn’t as far along as he’d hoped — an honest assessment considering the roster features freshmen, transfers, and only one returning starter. The Wildcats already showed vulnerability in their loss to Louisville, giving up 96 points to a ranked opponent.
Michigan State, meanwhile, looks more cohesive early, fueled by strong defensive numbers and a balanced roster. Ranked 14th in KenPom defensive efficiency, the Spartans have the tools to frustrate Kentucky’s inconsistent half-court offense.
Pick:
Michigan State + the points — The Spartans’ defense, continuity, and early-season rhythm give them a real chance to pull off the upset in a neutral-site setting.
