MSU and Connecticut will open season in Germany

The Michigan State basketball team will once again push the envelope of creativity and ingenuity when it opens the 2012-13 season against Connecticut at Ramstein AirBase in Germany.

The game will be played on November 9, 2012.

The Spartans, who opened last season with a game against North Carolina played on an aircraft carrier in San Diego, will play what's believed to be the first regular season collegiate game in Europe.  

The plans will be finalized pending the ultimate approval from the Department of Defense.

"Coach Izzo has a talent for recognizing and bringing to Michigan State University student-athletes that want to be the best on the court while developing themselves as young men," said Mark Hollis.  "All of us at Michigan State believe in providing our student-athletes with championship opportunities and amazing cultural experiences. 

"The student-athletes on our men's basketball team have had an opportunity to play the game they love in NCAA Final Fours, for Big Ten titles and aboard a USN Aircraft Carrier in front of the President of the United States of America."

Izzo, who called this an amazing opportunity for Spartan basketball and Michigan State University, thanked ESPN for reaching out to the university and inviting them to be a part of the event.

"Playing in the Carrier Classic on the USS Carl Vinson last season provided memories that will last a lifetime, as the historic event was so much more than just a basketball game," said Izzo.  "The opportunity to honor the great men and women of the US Armed Forces was a humbling experience, as we felt that we got so much more in return than we gave.

"To now have the opportunity to take our game overseas to the servicemen and women serving to protect us is an awesome experience. I’m reminded of my trips to the US bases in Kuwait, and what a life-changing experience that was for me. Everyone associated with the Michigan State basketball program is excited for this unique opportunity."