Once again MSU head coach Tom Izzo has ensured a nonconference schedule that will force the men’s basketball team to prove themselves.

“I think we’ve done a good job of putting together a very difficult schedule,” Izzo said in a statement. “I believe playing strong competition during the nonconference schedule only makes our team stronger and this year should be no exception.”

The 2002-03 schedule is highlighted by games against Oklahoma, Syracuse and Kentucky.

“With Kentucky, we have one of the great programs in the history of college basketball,” Izzo said. “Oklahoma was in last year’s Final Four and will be very good again this season.”

Assistant coach Mark Montgomery said playing Virginia will add extra excitement for a couple of reasons.

“Since we didn’t get to finish our last game against them the first time, everyone is excited and eagerly anticipating the rematch,” he said. “But the big deal is all about the ACC/Big 10 matchup.”

MSU will open the regular season at home against UNC Asheville on Nov. 22.

MSU also will have quite a bit of television coverage this year with three games on ESPN and two on CBS.

“Our ESPN coverage is about the same as last year, but two games covered by CBS - that’s pretty good,” Montgomery said. “We want as much exposure as possible.”

Former star point-guard Mateen Cleaves said this year’s schedule looks tough, but he said it’s what Izzo always wants.

“This year’s schedule looks good,” he said.

“Those are the types of schedules that build successful teams.”

Audrey L. Barney

and Tanee Elston