HELMET HIGHLIGHTS

Michigan State University Trademarks and Licensing

Monthly News & Updates

October 2026 | Issue 40

Celebrating Sustainability Month

MSU celebrates its annual Sustainability Month in October! Throughout the month, the Office of Sustainability shares events, workshops, and initiatives designed to educate and engage the Spartan Community in sustainability efforts. MSU hopes this month will encourage people to find ways to go Spartan Green!

If your company features products that are produced sustainably, please notify Emily at eblue@msu.edu so we can include you in our social media content throughout the month.

Catch Erika on the Road

Erika is taking UTL on the road! Our Director of University Trademarks and Licensing, Erika Austin, has a busy travel schedule ahead and may be headed to a city near you.

If you’re a licensee, retailer or partner in one of the areas below, she’d love the opportunity to connect while she’s in town. Reach out to Erika at eaustin@msu.edu to schedule some time to meet!

Ann Arbor, MI: October 20-22
Philadelphia, PA: November 6-8
Asheboro, NC: December 4-7
Palm Springs, CA: January 15-17

Fashion Fits with Coach Fitz

Trucker hats have become a staple of Coach Pat Fitzgerald’s style, creating a natural merchandising opportunity for Spartan fans who want to sport the look.

Licensees and retailers are encouraged to keep MSU trucker hat styles in the mix and readily available at retail throughout football season. If Coach Fitz is wearing it, chances are Spartan fans will want to wear it, too!

Women’s Basketball 2026-27 Schedule

The complete schedule for the 2026-27 Michigan State women's basketball was announced in mid-September. They will play 17 games at the friendly confines of the Breslin Center, beginning with an exhibition against Michigan Tech on Oct. 28.

MSU women's basketball is excited to hit the court after a successful season last year, reaching the second round of the NCAA Tournament.

A Reminder on Generative AI and MSU Trademarks

As generative AI becomes an increasingly common tool for creating marketing content and imagery, we want to remind all MSU licensees and retailers to use these tools carefully and in accordance with Michigan State University guidelines.

Generative AI may not be used to create depictions of Sparty or any other MSU trademarks, including the Spartan helmet, Block S, university wordmarks, seal or other protected marks. AI-generated imagery can alter or inaccurately reproduce trademarks, which can compromise the integrity and consistency of the MSU brand.

Licensees and retailers should also use caution when using AI-generated imagery to advertise officially licensed merchandise. Always carefully review AI-assisted creative before publishing to ensure MSU trademarks are represented correctly and that the products, designs, colors and other details shown accurately reflect the merchandise customers will receive. MSU’s standards emphasize that AI-generated assets require thorough human review because changes made through AI prompts can unintentionally alter other elements within an image.

We encourage all partners to familiarize themselves with MSU’s Standards for Use of Generative AI and to contact University Trademarks and Licensing with questions about appropriate use.

2026 MSU Football Schedule and Themes

Below is the schedule for the remaining 2026 MSU Football season (home games in bold). Several games time have yet to be announced; all times listed are Eastern. UTL is working closely with Athletics on potential opportunities for licensees to collaborate with the specific themes.

October 3: at Wisconsin
October 10 at 3:30 p.m.: Illinois – Homecoming
October 17: Northwestern – Go Green Wear White
October 24: at UCLA
November 7: at Michigan
November 14: Washington – Military Appreciation
November 20 at 8 p.m.: Oregon – Senior Celebrations
November 28: at Rutgers

Spartan Men's Basketball to Play in State Farm Champions Classic in Chicago

Chicago is going GREEN this November! Tom Izzo and the Michigan State men’s basketball team are headed to the United Center on November 10 for the 15th annual State Farm Champions Classic. The Spartans will take on Duke as part of a marquee event that also features Kentucky and Kansas.

Chicagoland retailers, this is your opportunity! With Spartan fans heading to the Windy City for one of the biggest early-season matchups in college basketball, now is the time to stock up on officially licensed MSU gear. Make sure your shelves are ready to help Spartan fans gear up, show their green and white and represent MSU all over Chicago!

Men's and Women's Basketball Participating in 2026 Acrisure Series

Spartan hoops are taking over the Coachella Valley! Both the Michigan State men’s and women’s basketball teams will head to California for the 2026 Acrisure Series on Saturday, December 19, at Acrisure Arena. In a doubleheader, both Spartan squads will take on Gonzaga, giving West Coast MSU fans twice the opportunity to cheer on MSU.

This marks a return to the Acrisure event for both programs, and with a strong Spartan alumni presence in Southern California, there should be plenty of MSU fans making their way to the desert. One ticket provides admission to both games, with tipoff times to be announced.

Retailers in Southern California and the Palm Springs area: now is a great time to make sure you’re stocked with officially licensed MSU gear before Spartan fans arrive for a big weekend of basketball in the desert!

Thanksgiving Day Game to Feature MSU Men's Basketball versus University of Arkansas

On Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 26, Michigan State University and the University of Arkansas men’s basketball teams will go head-to-head at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit in the CareSource Invitational.

Centered on the powerful message, “It’s OK to not be OK,” the series highlights the link between physical and mental well-being and the need to normalize conversations around mental health to create safe, supportive environments where young people can seek help and thrive.

Head Coaches Tom Izzo (Michigan State) and John Calipari (Arkansas) bring both coaching excellence and a commitment to mental health to the live invitational.

“We’re excited for the opportunity to play in the CareSource Invitational against a great program like Arkansas on Thanksgiving,” said Spartans head coach Tom Izzo. “I’m looking forward to matching up with John Calipari, one of my great friends in college basketball. This game will be one of those memory-makers for our players and a great day of sports in Detroit.”

Read the full announcement.

Jeremy Fears Jr. Named Preseason National Player of the Year by Blue Ribbon College Basketball

Michigan State men's basketball redshirt junior guard Jeremy Fears Jr. was named the preseason National Player of the Year by Blue Ribbon College Basketball for the upcoming season. Fears is the first Michigan State player to be named a preseason Player of the Year by Blue Ribbon since Mateen Cleaves in 2000.

Fears is coming off a career year in 2025-26, helping lead the Spartans to a 27-8 overall record, including a 15-5 mark in the Big Ten Conference.

He was one of 10 players selected to the John R. Wooden Award All-America Team in late March, the e fifth All-American honor for Fears, who was named a Second Team All-American by the Associated Press, earned third team honors from The Sporting News, the United States Basketball Writers Association and the National Association of Basketball Coaches.

Men’s Basketball Announces Schedule for 2026-27 Season; Join UTL for a Game

Michigan State's men's basketball complete schedule for the 2026-27 season has been announced, including all non-conference matchups.

Michigan State will open the season with an exhibition game on Friday, Oct. 2 against the University of Incarnate Word, leading into the annual Izzone Campout.

The 2026-27 regular season opens on Monday, Nov. 2, with the Spartans hosting Quinnipiac, the preseason pick to win the Metro Conference.

Big Ten Conference play starts on Wednesday, Dec. 2, with the Spartans hosting Minnesota. MSU will play both home and away against Maryland, Michigan and Nebraska.

Big Ten opponents to visit the Breslin Center include Minnesota, Oregon, Penn State, Purdue, Rutgers, Washington and Wisconsin.

UTL has season tickets for the upcoming home season, and we'd like to host you and a guest!

If you're a licensee or retailer and would like to experience the excitement of the Breslin Center, please reach out to Erika at eaustin@msu.edu to check on availability. Limit of two tickets per game; first come first served.

Explore the New UTL Website

We’re excited to share the newly redesigned Michigan State University Trademarks and Licensing website! Visit licensing.msu.edu to explore a fresh new look and easier access to the information and resources you need.

Whether you’re looking for licensing information, brand and trademark guidance, official retailers, or the latest news from UTL, the new site makes it easier to find what you’re looking for. We invite you to take a look around and bookmark the site for future reference!

Be Our Guest at a Spartan Football Game and Tailgate

UTL has a limited number of football tickets remaining for the 2026 home season, and we'd like to host you and a guest! If you're a licensee or retailer and would like to experience gameday in Spartan Stadium, please reach out to Erika at eaustin@msu.edu to check on availability. Limit of two tickets per game; first come first served.

Also, if you'll be in East Lansing for game day, you're always invited to stop by our UTL Tailgate, located along the Banks of the Red Cedar in Lot 11 behind the Library. Please email Kaye at karnett@msu.edu ahead of time to ensure we have enough food prepared and to confirm that we'll be set up to tailgate that week.

Athletics Fall Promo Schedules Released

Michigan State Athletics has released its fall sports promotional schedules.

Promotions for Football, Men's and Women's Soccer, Field Hockey and Volleyball are now available.

Check out some of the featured dates and events below, and be sure to visit their website for the latest updates on fall sports promotions.

Volleyball

October 11: Breast Cancer Awareness
November 17: Battle at Breslin (vs. Michigan); Go Green Wear White

Men's Soccer

October 13: Battle for the Big Bear (vs. Michigan); Go Green Wear White
October 30: Senior Celebrations

Women's Soccer

October 8: Go Green Wear White

Field Hockey

October 2: Senior Celebrations
October 9: Breast Cancer Awareness

UAB Partner Opportunites for Fall 2026

Our University Activities Board (UAB), in collaboration with University Trademarks and Licensing (UTL), is looking for licensees to partner with for their upcoming events. UTL is interested in supplying the requested items for one of these upcoming opportunities. If you have any designs or products that we could discuss purchasing, please share with us!

Below are details for Fall 2026 events and their needs:

UAB Giveaway Day Series

Expected event dates: Fri. Nov. 6, Tues. Nov. 10, Thurs. Dec 10
Average attendance at event series: ~150
Event brief: UAB Giveaway Days are designed to promote the UAB brand and giveaway fun items to our MSU student audience. These are come-and-go events, all while supplies last, that pop up around campus in various locations serveral times per semester.
Previous giveaway: This is an event series; giveaways have included hand warmers, coloring supplies, LEGO garden kits and fidget toys
Hope for this event: Licensee partnership on a Spartan themed item. Also open to any additional fun themed ideas!

Holiday Harmony Bash

Expected event date: Tuesday, Dec. 8
Previous year attendance: 181
Event brief: Students are invited to experience the wonder and magic of December holidays at Holiday Harmony Bash! Explore a mix of traditions from different national and international holidays through fun activities, themed crafts, and tasty cultural food and drinks.
Hope for this year: Winter and/or Spartan themed items (not Christmas specific)

If you're interested in partnering, or for more information, please contact Emily at eblue@msu.edu.

MSU Ice Hockey Home Schedule Released; Join UTL for a Game

The Big Ten conference has announced its complete schedule for the 2026-27 hockey season. Game times and television selections will be announced at a later date.

Michigan State's conference schedule features four games (two home, two away) against each of the other six league teams. In total, MSU will play 18 home games (including two exhibitions) at Ron Mason Rink at Munn Ice Arena this upcoming season. The team will be led by captain Patrick Geary, senior and 2024 NHL Draft pick for the Buffalo Sabres. Senior Tommi Mannisto and junior Shane Vansaghi will serve as this season's assistant captains.

UTL has season tickets for the upcoming home season, and we'd like to host you and a guest! If you're a licensee or retailer and would like to experience the excitement of Munn Ice Arena, please reach out to Erika at eaustin@msu.edu to check on availability. Limit of two tickets per game; first come first served.

Reminder: Men's Basketball All-Black Uniform

Men’s basketball will feature a standard black uniform as part of its regular rotation this season. The popularity and distinctive look of the uniform presents a strong opportunity for licensees and retailers to develop coordinating black merchandise, giving Spartan fans more ways to embrace the look and support the team throughout the season.

NIL Merchandise Parent Program: Customization Opportunity

UTL is exploring the development of a new NIL Merchandise Parent Program designed to help Spartan families celebrate their student-athletes through personalized, officially licensed merchandise. We know many parents love creating DIY products featuring their student-athlete, and we see an opportunity to provide a convenient, compliant way for them to turn those ideas into high-quality licensed products for them to show support.

We are currently looking for a licensee with expertise in customization and personalization who may be interested in helping us develop this program. The ideal partner would have the capabilities to offer a variety of customizable products while providing a seamless experience for MSU Athletics' families.

Interested licensees are encouraged to reach out to Erika at eaustin@msu.edu to learn more about the opportunity and discuss potential program concepts.

Date Set For December Graduation

Fall semester commencement ceremonies are scheduled for December 18-19, 2026, in the Breslin Student Events Center. Now is the perfect time to start showcasing your graduation-themed and gift merchandise. As a reminder, Graduation Sparty is a licensed mark available for use on approved merchandise.

Social Media and University Content Calendar

We’re turning up the volume on social! Each month, we’ll be spotlighting licensed Spartan products and retail locations across our MSU Gear channels—and we want you to join in the fun. Share your content, prize packs, or creative ideas with us, and let’s team up to spread the Green and White spirit. If you’d like to partner on upcoming campaigns, reach out to Emily at eblue@msu.edu.

And that’s not all—MSU has also put together a dynamic, inclusive content calendar that highlights federal and religious holidays, University and state milestones, identity-recognition events, secular celebrations, and more. We’ve added those important dates to the list below so you can celebrate right along with us!

October

National Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15 - Oct. 15)

LGBT History Month

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Disability Pride Month (MSU)

10 – World Mental Health Day

12 – Indigenous Peoples' Day

16 – National Bosses Day

19-23 – National Transfer Student Week

29 – National Cat Day

31 – Halloween

Collaborate With Us

At MSU Trademarks and Licensing, we’re proud to partner with licensees and retailers to highlight officially licensed Spartan gear.

One of the simplest—and most effective—ways to increase visibility and engagement is through social media tagging. It’s an easy step that helps amplify your posts while reinforcing our shared Spartan brand.

Be sure to tag MSU Gear on Facebook, X, Instagram, and LinkedIn so we can engage, share, and showcase your Spartan products together.

Share the News

Is there someone in your organization that you would like to receive the Helmet Highlights newsletter? Just send Emily the contact information (name and email) to eblue@msu.edu and we will add them to the distribution list!

Erika Austin, Director of University Trademarks and Licensing, eaustin@msu.edu / 517-353-8998

Kaye Bastien, Assistant Director, karnett@msu.edu / 517-355-3434

Emily Blue, Assistant Director, eblue@msu.edu / 517-353-1988