Michigan State sporting events postponed through at least Wednesday; situation 'fluid'

East Lansing — While the Michigan State community grapples with the tragedy of Monday night’s mass shooting, the Spartans’ athletic department is also doing its best to navigate a difficult time.

In the immediate aftermath of the shootings that claimed the life of three students and injured five others who were all in critical condition as of midday Tuesday, Michigan State’s campus has been shut down, with only essential personnel reporting for the rest of the week and classes not set to resume until Monday.

That means all athletics have officially been postponed through at least Wednesday, the university confirmed in a release on Tuesday night.

That includes a home men’s basketball game against Minnesota, a home men's tennis match versus Drake and the women’s basketball game slated for Wednesday at Purdue. The women’s basketball team would normally have left for Purdue by Tuesday afternoon, but that trip has been called off, athletic director Alan Haller confirmed Tuesday morning.

"We are all devastated following the tragic events of Monday night," Haller said in a statement. "First and foremost, our heart breaks for the families and loved ones of the students who were taken from us much too soon. And our prayers are with those still fighting for their lives in the hospital.

"The focus for the athletic department today has been the mental health and wellness of our student-athletes and staff. All across campus, different units are doing the same to make sure everyone is getting the resources they need. Please reach out if you're in need of assistance and look for ways to support and help your fellow Spartan. I've been reminded today that everyone will process trauma in a different manner.

"To everyone who has reached out in support of our community, I offer my sincere gratitude. The outpouring of support from across the Big Ten Conference and the country has been overwhelming. It's clear that although we may compete on the court, we are truly united by our shared humanity."

The statement noted there are no other additional postponements currently, but it "is a fluid situation and information is subject to change." The most notable event that remains up in the air is the men's basketball game scheduled for 8 p.m. Saturday at Michigan.

"At some point in the days ahead, we will return to the field of competition," Haller said. "For some, the games will provide a momentary escape from our shattered reality, but we must never lose sight that life has been irrevocably altered for us all. Our commitment to look after one another has never been more necessary."

The Big Ten issued a statement early Tuesday afternoon offering its support for Michigan State.

"The Big Ten Conference has been in consistent contact with campus leaders at Michigan State University throughout last night and this morning," the statement read. "The entire conference is holding the Spartan community close to our hearts as we all try to comprehend these senseless acts of violence.

"We send our deepest condolences to the families who are grieving the tragic loss of their loved ones, and we are praying for complete recovery for those who were injured and remain at Sparrow Hospital.

"As we await more information, the conference will continue to support Michigan State University and its community in every way possible in their efforts to heal."

Former Michigan State players and coaches took to social media on Tuesday to offer support for the university, including football coach Mark Dantonio, who post on Twitter.

"Devastated and shocked at the tragic event that occurred last night at MSU, the place and community my family still calls home," Dantonio posted. "Our thoughts and prayers are with all Spartans. #SpartansStrong #SpartansWill"

"My heart breaks for the entire Michigan State community… grieving alongside all my fellow Spartans. #SpartanStrong" former quarterback and current Minnesota Viking Kirk Cousins said.

Basketball legend and Lansing native Earvin Magic Johnson posted late Monday night.

"Cookie & I are devastated to hear about the news of a shooting on Michigan State’s campus. We are praying for the victims, their families, students, faculty, employees & administration," Johnson said on Twitter. "This is such a tragic situation & our hearts go out to the MSU community, all of Lansing and East Lansing!"

mcharboneau@detroitnews.com

Twitter: @mattcharboneau