Photo: Vincent Carchietta ~ Imagn Images
EAST LANSING ~ Michigan State delivered a convincing performance at Madison Square Garden, defeating Kentucky 83-66 in the Champions Classic. From the opening tip, the Spartans looked sharp and confident, shooting 50% from the field and an impressive 50% from three-point range. Their early surge of seven first-half threes helped build a 44-27 halftime lead, leaving Kentucky scrambling to keep pace. The Wildcats, meanwhile, struggled to find rhythm offensively, hitting just 35% of their shots and only 23% from deep, a shooting slump that defined their night.
Tom Izzo’s squad showcased depth and balance throughout the game, with three Spartans scoring in double figures. Senior forward Jaxon Kohler led the way with 20 points and five rebounds, while sophomore guard Kur Teng chipped in 15 points and made three threes. Michigan State dominated the glass, out rebounding Kentucky 42-28, and their ball movement was exceptional, tallying 25 assists on 32 made field goals.
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(CONTINUED) Kentucky never found its rhythm on offense. The Wildcats were sharp at the free-throw line, hitting 19 of 22, but that couldn’t make up for their cold shooting from the field. Poor shot selection and a lack of second-chance opportunities told the story, as they managed just six offensive rebounds all night.
For Michigan State, this victory is more than just a notch in the win column, it’s a confidence booster against a top-15 opponent. The Spartans improved to 4-0 and showed they can shoot, defend, and share the ball at an elite level. Their ability to stretch the floor and dominate inside makes them a dangerous team moving forward. For Izzo, this was vintage Michigan State basketball: tough, disciplined, and opportunistic, a performance that could set the tone for the rest of the season. Next up, they return home to face Detroit Mercy on Friday night at the Breslin Center.
