Michigan State welcomed in UCLA on Tuesday night, where the Spartans bounced back in a big way against the Bruins, dominating them en route to a 82-59 win.
Other than the game, it was the return of Xavier Booker, who was playing his first game inside of the Breslin Center since departing the program via the transfer portal.
In his return, Booker was met warmly by the Spartans fan base, so much so that Tom Izzo mentioned this in his post game press conference. Booker himself, following the game, spoke about his return to East Lansing.
Booker talked about the emotions he felt in this game, talking about the relationships he had with the Spartans program and what he sees in the Michigan State program.
See what Booker had to say via X:
“I definitely have a lot of love for Spartan Nation, the coaching staff, and my teammates.”
Xavier Booker reflected after the game on his return to Michigan State and what Tom Izzo means to him. @wilxTV
More: https://t.co/zGufgnfUEspic.twitter.com/1kLR6bn4wL
— Owen Oszust (@Owen_Oszust) February 18, 2026
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This article originally appeared on Spartans Wire: Xavier Booker talks return to East Lansing following loss to MSU

