New Mexico vs Michigan State: March Madness Second Round Showdown - How to Watch NCAA Tournament 2025
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New Mexico takes on Michigan State in a thrilling second-round NCAA Tournament matchup on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at 8:40 p.m. ET. The game will be broadcast on TNT.
March Madness 2025 tournament logo
Michigan State (27-6) enters as the No. 2 seed, boasting the nation's second-best three-point defense (27.9%) and allowing just 67.9 points per game. Guard Jaden Akins (12.7 PPG) and forward Jaxon Kohler (7.6 RPG) lead Coach Tom Izzo's squad in their 27th consecutive tournament appearance.
Basketball players compete in NCAA game
The No. 10 seed New Mexico Lobos secured their first NCAA Tournament win since 2012, defeating Marquette 75-66 in the first round. Mountain West Player of the Year Donovan Dent leads the high-tempo offense with 20.6 points and 6.4 assists per game, while Nelly Junior Joseph adds 14.0 points and 11.2 rebounds.
Men celebrating amid falling confetti
Key Matchup Factors:
- Michigan State must control tempo and limit transition opportunities
- New Mexico's success depends on forcing turnovers and maintaining their 81.2 points per game scoring average
- Free-throw shooting could prove decisive in a close game
Basketball players compete in NCAA game
The game features an intriguing coaching storyline, as Richard Pitino and his father Rick became the first father-son duo to win NCAA Tournament games in the same year.
MSU basketball team celebrates win
Two men smile at event
Two basketball players on court
New Mexico basketball players in red
While Michigan State enters as the favorite, New Mexico's dynamic offense and momentum make them a serious upset threat in this Sweet 16 play-in game.