Jase Richardson's hot shooting helped Michigan State overcome a poor start and move into another Elite Eight, though the Spartans need at least one more win for a real celebration. “We don’t put up any banners for Elite Eights,

Tom Izzo and Michigan State basketball advance to the Elite Eight of March Madness after defeating Ole Miss, 73-70, Friday in the Sweet Sixteen.

Tom Izzo is crying. In a college basketball world that has become overrun by NIL and the transfer portal, Michigan State’s iconic coach had plenty of love for the team he has built over multiple years after punching a ticket to the Elite Eight.

Ole Miss basketball is set for he Sweet 16, the Rebels first appearance since 2001 and second all-time. The 6-seeded Rebels will be taking on the 2-seeded Mich

Watch Tom Izzo, Jase Richardson, Jaden Akins and Coen Carr break down the Spartans' victory over Ole Miss in the Sweet 16 on Friday

In Michigan State's last five games — the regular-season finale against Michigan, two Big Ten tournament games and two NCAA Tournament wins — he's averaging 12.8 points, hitting 47.6% of his 3-pointers and averaging three assists to one turnover. His biggest moment in that stretch came during a stoppage in play.

Michigan State is one win away from a ninth Final Four appearance in the 70-year-old’s 30-year tenure. If the Spartans can get by top-seeded Auburn or rival Michigan in the Elite Eight, Izzo will join Roy Williams, ranking fourth all-time in Final Four appearances, behind only Mike Krzyzewski (13), John Wooden (12) and Dean Smith (11).

Freshman Tahaad Pettiford and senior Denver Jones turned in dazzling performances when it mattered most, rallying top-seeded Auburn to a 78-65 victory over Michigan.

BOTTOM LINE: No. 8 Michigan State plays Ole Miss in the Sweet 16 round of the NCAA Tournament. The Spartans’ record in Big Ten games is 18-4, and their record is 11-2 in non-conference games. Michigan State is 3-2 in games decided by 3 points or fewer.