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Saturday, November 14, 2026Nov 14

Spartans, Badgers, Shockers among most NCAA tourney-tested

Michigan State head coach Tom Izzo watches second half action against Purdue in Indianapolis on Sunday, March 13, 2016. Michigan State won, 66-62. (Kirthmon F. Dozier/Detroit Free Press via AP) MANDATORY CREDIT
Michigan State head coach Tom Izzo watches second half action against Purdue in Indianapolis on Sunday, March 13, 2016. Michigan State won, 66-62. (Kirthmon F. Dozier/Detroit Free Press via AP) MANDATORY CREDIT

MADISON, Wis. (AP) – The arenas tend to be larger for the NCAA Tournament. The media spotlight is brighter. Tensions rise with seasons on the line.

In the NCAAs, postseason experience can be just as important, if not more pivotal, than sheer talent.

Been there, done that.

“It’s important as long as you use it to your advantage,” Wisconsin coach Greg Gard said.

Of the 68 teams that qualified for the tournament, Michigan State has the most NCAA experience on its roster, with a cumulative total of 59 games among active players over the previous four seasons, according to STATS.