Rivalry Reignited: Michigan State's Richardson and Auburn's Pettiford Clash in Elite Eight
In a thrilling showdown set to unfold, Michigan State's Jase Richardson and Auburn's Tahaad Pettiford, both high-scoring, left-handed freshman guards, are ready to take their long-standing rivalry to the next level. Their impressive performances have propelled their teams to the NCAA Tournament's Elite Eight, but their connection runs deeper than just the current season.
Despite hailing from different corners of the country—Pettiford from Jersey City, New Jersey, and Richardson from Denver, Colorado—the two have a rich history of competing against each other on the AAU circuit. This shared background adds an exciting layer to their upcoming matchup, as they prepare to face off in a high-stakes game that could lead one of their teams to the coveted Final Four.
On Sunday, the intensity of their rivalry will reach new heights when No. 1 seed Auburn squares off against No. 2 seed Michigan State in the final game of the South Region. The stakes couldn't be higher, and both players are eager to showcase their skills on such a grand stage.
"When you get to play guys you've grown up with and play in AAU circuits and camps, it's super fun," Richardson expressed on Saturday. "You get to play them at the highest level. So just to have that matchup in the Elite Eight is special."
Both freshmen played pivotal roles in their teams' Sweet 16 victories on Friday night, demonstrating their ability to perform under pressure. Pettiford was instrumental in Auburn's comeback against Michigan, scoring 15 of his 20 points in the second half to help the Tigers secure a 78-65 win. His timely 3-pointer ignited a crucial 14-0 run when Auburn faced its largest deficit.
"He has a very important role on this team," said Auburn star forward Johni Broome. "He does whatever it takes to win. We need a spark, he gives the spark."
Meanwhile, Richardson and the Spartans (30-6) found themselves trailing by 10 points in the first half and nine points after halftime before rallying to a 73-70 victory over Mississippi. Richardson showcased his efficiency, hitting 6 of 8 shots, including 4 of 6 from beyond the arc, and scoring 10 of his 20 points in the second half.
Adding to the excitement, Richardson is the son of former NBA star and Michigan State legend Jason Richardson, which adds a personal touch to his journey. On the other hand, Pettiford was one of three players to score 20 points in Auburn's win over Michigan, alongside Broome, who tallied 22 points and 16 rebounds, and Denver Jones, who contributed 20 points with four 3-pointers. This performance solidified Auburn's status as the top overall seed in the tournament.
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This marks only Auburn's third appearance in the Elite Eight, while Michigan State's head coach, Tom Izzo, boasts an impressive 59 overall NCAA Tournament wins, including an 8-2 record in the Elite Eight. With one more victory, Izzo would secure his ninth Final Four appearance, further cementing his legacy in college basketball.
Auburn's coach, Bruce Pearl, acknowledged the historical significance of Michigan State's NCAA Tournament success, including their national title in 2000, suggesting that the Spartans might be the favorites heading into the matchup. BetMGM has listed Auburn as the favorite by 5.5 points, adding another layer of intrigue to the game.
"You're talking about uncharted waters," Pearl remarked on Saturday, referring to Auburn's journey in March Madness.
Izzo, however, was not swayed by Pearl's comments about the underdog narrative. "I don't buy any of that stuff, but if it makes him feel better, I'll be the favorite," he quipped, showcasing his confidence heading into the game.
Auburn is one of four Southeastern Conference teams still in the Elite Eight, while Michigan State stands as the last representative from the Big Ten. The Big Ten has not claimed a national championship since Izzo's Spartans took home the title in 2000, a fact that weighs heavily on the coach's mind.
"I don't take pride in it," Izzo stated regarding the Big Ten's struggles in the Final Four. "I take blame for it. I've been in it seven other times and haven't won."
One of Michigan State's strengths has been its depth, but Izzo has recently tightened his rotation, utilizing only eight players against Ole Miss. He made a notable change by giving forward Coen Carr his first career start while sidelining 7-foot center Szymon Zapala, who typically starts. Izzo explained that this adjustment was made to create better matchups against Ole Miss, and he anticipates Zapala will return to the lineup against Auburn.
