Brazdeikis, Michigan ready for intense atmosphere against Michigan State

Ignas Brazdeikis loves an animated atmosphere.

The freshman forward has been telling that to just about anyone who will listen since his first game at Michigan in October. On the road, he revels in the chance to play the villain and silence the opposing crowd. At home, there’s nothing he loves more than playing in front of a packed, energetic crowd.

Sunday, with Michigan State coming to Ann Arbor, hundreds of Michigan basketball alumni joining the crowd, and the 1989 National Championship team getting honored, Brazdeikis will get to play another game in the charged-up atmosphere he craves.

“It’s gonna be amazing,” Brazdeikis said. “I’m really excited for that moment of just — once the whistles blow and everyone’s ready for tipoff, that’s my favorite feeling in the world. I wouldn’t replace that for anything. I’m just excited for that moment and to really get a good game.”

More on Michigan-Michigan State:

• Matchup Breakdown: Michigan State at Michigan
• The game plan: How Michigan is designed to beat Michigan State
• Film Room: Breaking down Michigan State’s transition offense
• Podcast: At long last: The Michigan vs. Michigan State preview