Michigan State AD Alan Haller thanks Warde Manuel for support following shooting

After tragedy struck Michigan State earlier in the week in the form of a shooting, the Spartans returned to the court against the Michigan Wolverines on Saturday.

The two teams are bitter rivals. Vigor fills the veins of both fanbases when these two programs face off. But Saturday was different. There was respect, love and a whole lot of heart between the Wolverines and the Spartans following the difficult situation.

Michigan State Athletic Director Alan Haller certainly took notice, as he made sure to thank Michigan Athletic Director Warde Manuel for the immense support the Wolverines provided the Spartans.

I’d like to thank Michigan AD Warde Manuel and his entire department for all the love and support they provided throughout the week. Although we’re rivals in competition, you’ve proven that our shared humanity is ultimately greater than the colors which divide us. #SpartanStrong pic.twitter.com/i2HM2QtxE0

— Alan Haller (@halleral) February 19, 2023

“I’d like to thank Michigan AD Warde Manuel and his entire department for all the love and support they provided throughout the week,” tweeted Haller. “Although we’re rivals in competition, you’ve proven that our shared humanity is ultimately greater than the colors which divide us. #SpartanStrong.”

Michigan may have won the game on Saturday, but it feels like the entire state grew closer. In their time of need, the Wolverines shined through for the Spartans, and proved that there’s always an immense respect between the two programs.

Juwan Howard puts rivalry aside to support Michigan State amid tragedy

Moreover, Michigan coach Juwan Howard prepared his team for their rivalry game against Michigan State on Saturday, but he knew there were more important things going on. That was never more evident than after a shooting took place on the MSU campus Monday, resulting in the death of three students.

Five others were wounded in the shooting, which resulted in the postponement of the Spartans’ basketball game against Minnesota. Michigan State traveled to Ann Arbor for their first game since the tragedy, and Howard was in contact with Spartans coach Tom Izzo throughout to let him know he is thinking of the school. 

“I’ve talked to coach Izzo by text as well as (football) coach Mel Tucker,” Howard said. “Just letting them know that we at Michigan, despite the sport and how we both are rivals, when it comes to a tragedy like that, you put the sport aside. All you think about it is those lost ones that unfortunately had to deal with that situation. Our prayers and thoughts are with the families. We will continue to pray and support Michigan State as they deal with this sad tragedy.”

Additionally, Michigan revealed Wednesday that some of its teams will wear special helmet decals to honor the victims of the shooting. The basketball team honored Michigan State in many ways on Saturday, proving that some things are bigger than sports.

On3’s Barkley Truax contributed to this article.