SPORTS

Michigan State, Arkansas Set Thanksgiving Game in Detroit

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Detroit. Michigan State will play Arkansas at Little Caesars Arena on Thursday, Nov. 26, officials announced Wednesday, July 8, with coaches Tom Izzo and John Calipari confirming the nonconference matchup; the game is scheduled as part of a busy Thanksgiving Day sports lineup in downtown Detroit. The announcement noted tickets go on sale Oct. 1 and that CBS will broadcast the game; the day also features the 100th anniversary Thanksgiving Parade beginning at 8:45 a.m. and the Lions hosting the Bears at 1 p.m., with organizers and coaches citing national exposure and strong recent Nielsen audiences.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

Feb. 21, 1993 — Purdue vs. Indiana drew 7.225 million viewers (historical benchmark).
Thanksgiving last year — Arkansas vs. Duke averaged 6.813 million viewers, per Nielsen.
July 8 — Arkansas and Michigan State officially announced the Thanksgiving matchup at Little Caesars Arena.
Oct. 1 — Tickets for the game scheduled to go on sale at DetroitHoops.com/tickets.
Nov. 26 — Game scheduled to tip off on Thanksgiving Day and air on CBS.

Why This Matters to You

This Thanksgiving, Detroit's sports scene is bustling. The Michigan State vs. Arkansas game is part of a packed day, including the 100th anniversary Thanksgiving Parade and a Lions game. If you're a sports fan, it's a day to mark on your calendar. Tickets go on sale Oct. 1 at DetroitHoops.com/tickets.

The Bottom Line

This game is a big deal for Detroit, with national exposure and strong recent Nielsen audiences. It's a chance for the city to shine on a national stage. If you're a fan of college basketball, it's a must-watch. Worth forwarding if you know someone who bleeds green and white.