The Spartans were looking to prove themselves at the Champions Classic, but fell short after little offensive success against Duke University at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois on Nov. 14, 2023. After falling to No. 18 in the most recent AP Poll, defeating Duke University, who holds their position in the top 10, at No. 9, the Spartans needed a confidence boost. "A.J., move the ball, my boy." head coach Tom Izzo pleaded to senior guard A.J. Hoggard during the first half of the game on the court. Despite exciting momentum in the second half, the Spartans were defeated with a final score of 74-65.