Photo: Vincent Carchietta ~ Imagn Images
FORT MYERS, Fla ~ Michigan State made a statement Thursday, overpowering No. 16 North Carolina 74-58 at the Fort Myers Tip-Off. The No. 11 Spartans leaned on their size and physicality, dominating the paint with a 46-34 scoring edge and winning the rebounding battle 37-30. After a back-and-forth first half featuring 10 lead changes, MSU seized control with a decisive 13-0 run and carried a 33-28 lead into halftime. From there, Tom Izzo’s squad never looked back, stretching the margin to double digits midway through the second half.
Sophomore guard Jeremy Fears Jr. set the tone for Michigan State, finishing with 19 points, seven assists and five rebounds while orchestrating the offense against UNC’s up-tempo attack. Senior center Carson Cooper added 14 points and six boards, and senior forward Jaxon Kohler delivered a double-double with 10 points and 11 rebounds. Freshman forward Cam Ward provided a spark off the bench with 11 points, including key buckets during MSU’s second-half surge. The Spartans shot an efficient 52% from the field and 50% from 3-point range (5-for-10), while North Carolina struggled at 38% overall and just 17% from deep (4-for-23).
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(CONTINUED) Michigan State’s defensive effort was just as impressive as its offensive execution. The Spartans forced UNC into long scoring droughts, holding the Tar Heels to only 58 points, their lowest output of the season. Izzo’s team showcased its depth and versatility, with eight players scoring and the bench contributing 20 points. Their ability to control tempo and impose physicality highlighted why this group looks built for a deep March run.
The victory marks Michigan State’s third win over a ranked opponent before December, following earlier triumphs against Arkansas and Kentucky. With Big Ten play looming, the Spartans look every bit like a contender, showcasing depth, toughness and defensive grit. Michigan State returns home to face Iowa on Dec. 2, riding a wave of confidence and momentum.
