DETROIT PISTONS AND PHOENIX SUNS TO SQUARE OFF AT BRESLIN CENTER ON THE CAMPUS OF MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY
The Detroit Pistons and Phoenix Suns have announced the scheduling of a preseason game between the two clubs at the storied Breslin Center at Michigan State University in East Lansing, Mich. on Tuesday, Oct. 8 at 7:00 p.m.
The Pistons are serving as the home team for the game and return to East Lansing for a preseason contest for the first time since 2018. Detroit also hosted a preseason game at Breslin Center back in 2000. The game marks the first contest in East Lansing for the Phoenix Suns.
Detroit Pistons owner Tom Gores, a Michigan State alum, and Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia, a Michigan State alum and four-year member of the Spartan basketball team, including the 2000 NCAA Championship team, each shared their excitement in bringing NBA basketball to Michigan State’s campus and the opportunity to engage the East Lansing sports community.
“Michigan State University is a special place and I’m thrilled for the opportunity to bring our team and the excitement of NBA basketball to sports fans in East Lansing,” said Gores. “The Lansing area and MSU community has always supported Pistons Basketball, and we welcome the opportunity to give fans an early look at our efforts to improve the team and create a foundation for delivering competitive basketball.”
“From being a walk on at Michigan State on the national championship team, to now being able to bring the Phoenix Suns to play at Breslin Center – this is a full circle moment and an incredibly special experience,” said Ishbia. “MSU and Coach Izzo have had an immeasurable impact on my life and my career, and I wouldn’t be where I am today, including owner of the Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury, without Coach Izzo’s mentorship. I can’t wait to bring the Spartan community and Phoenix Suns together.”
Michigan State Men’s Basketball Head Coach Tom Izzo echoed the sentiments of Gores and Ishbia and lauded the close relationship he shares with both NBA franchises.
“We’re excited to welcome the Pistons and the Suns to Breslin Center – two teams we’re fortunate enough to have great relationships with and close ties to our school and our team,” said Izzo. “Having an NBA game on campus featuring two Spartan alums as owners shows the power of Michigan State and the talent and quality of people that come from our great University. It’s an honor to call Tom Gores a friend and everyone knows the special bond I share with Mat having coached him as a former player in our program. I’m excited for the game and the opportunity to showcase NBA basketball to our MSU basketball fans and everyone here in the East Lansing community.”
