Photo: Nick King ~ USA TODAY NETWORK
EAST LANSING ~ Michigan State survived a tough challenge from Rutgers on Thursday night, pulling out a 91–87 win at the Breslin Center in a game that stayed tight until the final seconds. The Spartans entered the night as the stronger team on paper, but Rutgers refused to fade, trading baskets and defensive stops throughout both halves. Even as Michigan State maintained a modest lead for much of the second half, Rutgers kept pressing, setting up a tense finish in front of an energized East Lansing crowd.
The Spartans’ offensive balance proved to be the difference. Junior forward Coen Carr and redshirt sophomore Jeremy Fears Jr. each scored 21 points, with Carr shooting 6-for-9 from the field and hitting all eight of his free throws. Fears orchestrated the offense with poise, finishing 7-for-10 from the floor and adding eight assists, showcasing the command he has developed late in the season. Michigan State also received strong frontcourt production from senior center Jaxon Kohler, who posted 15 points and seven rebounds, and senior center Carson Cooper, who added 14 points and six boards. As a team, MSU shot an efficient 58% from the field.
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(CONTINUED) Rutgers, meanwhile, nearly stole the game behind an explosive performance from junior guard Tariq Francis, who poured in 25 points on 8-for-17 shooting, repeatedly hitting tough mid‑range jumpers to keep the Scarlet Knights alive. Although Rutgers shot just 47% from the field, it made up ground from deep and stayed competitive by forcing turnovers. Michigan State gave the ball away 15 times, far above its season norm. In the final minute, Rutgers cut the lead to four but couldn’t close the gap.
Ultimately, Michigan State’s rebounding and late‑game execution sealed the win. The Spartans dominated the glass 38–21, creating second‑chance opportunities that repeatedly halted Rutgers’ momentum. While the Scarlet Knights threatened by capitalizing on MSU turnovers, they couldn’t overcome the Spartans’ efficiency inside or their clutch shot‑making down the stretch. With the victory, Michigan State continues to build momentum heading toward postseason play.
Michigan State’s season finale is against in‑state rival Michigan on Sunday afternoon.
