This year’s edition of the Champions Classic will once again give us an early look at a few of the best programs in the nation. This time around the event comes back to Chicago and this particular matchup gives us a closer look at a pair of Top 10 teams looking to make serious noise with the talent on their rosters.
The early returns have been very solid for Michigan State (2-0) heading into this first major test. The return of Jeremy Fears Jr. gives the Spartans a star in the backcourt and he just might be the best point guard in the nation. Beyond him, Michigan State has real talent in this lineup and those newcomers in the frontcourt help up against a few mid-majors, though we’ll see how they handle a much stronger lineup.
These first few games have been just as fantastic for Duke (2-0), who have beaten the cover off of their first two opponents and now have a major opportunity in Chicago. While Cam Boozer is gone, Duke brought in another ridiculous recruiting class and we’re going to keep seeing the potential of this young crew. The Blue Devils would also love to get John Blackwell started after a slow start.
Michigan State vs. Duke: When and Where
Date: Tuesday, November 10, 2026, 7:00 pm ET
Location: United Center in Chicago, Illinois
Michigan State vs. Duke: Where to Watch or Stream
Watch: ESPN
Streaming: FuboTV
Michigan State vs. Duke: Betting Odds
Spread: Duke -6.5, Michigan State +6.5
Moneyline: N/A, Michigan State +225, Duke -278
Total: 148.5
Michigan State vs. Duke: Series History
All-time series: Duke leads 16-4
Last meeting: Duke 66, Michigan State 60 (December 6, 2025)
Projected Starting Lineups
Michigan State Spartans
Jordan Scott (11.5 ppg, 7.5 rpg, 4.0 apg)
Coen Carr (11.0 ppg, 6.5 rpg)
Anton Bonke (10.0 ppg, 10.0 rpg)
Jasiah Jervis (10.0 ppg, 4.0 rpg)
Jeremy Fears Jr. (12.5 ppg, 10.0 apg)
Duke Blue Devils
Dame Sarr (14.0 ppg, 3.5 rpg, 3.0 apg)
Joaquim Boumtje Boumtje (12.0 ppg, 6.0 rpg)
Patrick Ngongba II (19.0 ppg, 8.0 rpg)
John Blackwell (9.0 ppg, 2.0 rpg)
Cayden Boozer (10.0 ppg, 7.5 rpg)
There’s enormous talent in Duke’s frontcourt with these young stars, though the best player on the court will likely be Fears for Michigan State. His leadership and his ability to take control as a floor general and shot maker will be important if the Spartans are going to take business on the big stage on Tuesday night. Duke knows that they need more consistent offense after some outside struggles last week, but don’t be surprised if Blackwell and the rest of these shooters start finding their rhythm as the game progresses.
Are we going to see a major opportunity for Michigan State to snatch an early win and show that they might be the favorite in the Big Ten? Will Duke continue this impressive start to their season while their young talent shines in their first opportunity under the bright lights?
