Photo: Nick King ~ USA TODAY NETWORK
EAST LANSING ~ Michigan State powered past Toledo with a decisive 92-69 victory Tuesday, surging to a 10-1 record and showcasing dominant performances from both the starters and the bench. The Spartans jumped out early, piling on a 58-28 lead by halftime, capitalizing on Toledo’s sluggish offense and lack of consistent interior defense. Coach Tom Izzo’s squad controlled the glass with a commanding 54-24 rebound advantage, effectively limiting Toledo’s second chances.
A standout performance came from senior forward Jaxon Kohler, who delivered another impressive double-double with 16 points and 13 rebounds, continuing his dominance inside. Kohler’s first-half outburst, 14 points and 11 boards, set the tone early, allowing Michigan State to seize control and maintain momentum throughout the contest. His ability to finish at the rim, crash the glass, and even hit a 3-pointer underscored his versatile impact on both ends of the floor.
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(CONTINUED) Off the bench, sophomore guard Kur Teng sparked a sharp shooting run, pouring in 14 points and draining four 3-pointers in key moments to keep the Spartans rolling. Teng’s hot shooting, notably knocking down three threes in the first half, extended Michigan State’s lead and provided critical spacing that opened up lanes for the starters. His unexpected burst underscored the depth and balance in the Spartan rotation.
Michigan State’s depth also made its presence felt. Sophomore guard Jeremy Fears Jr. ran the offense with poise, handing out eight assists and keeping the ball moving to find open looks. The Spartans’ rotation players like senior center Carson Cooper and junior forward Coen Carr chipped in with timely contributions on both ends. Defensively, MSU smothered Toledo, holding the Rockets to just 36% shooting from the field and forcing them into contested attempts from deep. It was the kind of complete team effort that not only padded the win column but reinforced Michigan State’s identity as a physical, disciplined squad ready for the grind of Big Ten play.
Michigan State will go up against Oakland on Saturday at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit.
