Messier enrolled at Michigan State University, following in his older brother Mitch's footsteps. He played for the Spartans for four years and was a CCHA First Team All-Star selection in his senior year in 1991-92. After his sophomore year, Messier was selected by the New York Rangers in the 1989 NHL Entry Draft, 118th overall. During his time with the Spartans some of his teammates included Rod Brind'Amour, Kip Miller, Jason Woolley, Bryan Smolinski and Rem Murray.