Draw gives Golden Eagles mixed emotions: MU will face Michigan State in first round.

Byline: Todd Rosiak

Mar. 12--It was a bittersweet selection Sunday for the Marquette Golden Eagles.

Jubilation at earning a second consecutive at-large bid to the NCAA tournament was quickly replaced by disbelief after learning they'd not only been seeded eighth, but matched up against the Michigan State Spartans in the first round.

Having finished with a 24-9 overall record, with victories over Duke, Louisville and Pittsburgh twice -- all of whom were seeded higher -- the Golden Eagles undoubtedly were expecting a more favorable seeding and first-round matchup.

The NCAA tournament selection committee took a different view, however.

Seemingly putting a heavy emphasis on both their 5-5 finish to the season and the thumb injury that's sidelined one of their best players in Jerel McNeal, it not only placed MU in the brutal 8-9 game, it also made the Golden Eagles' …