EAST LANSING ~ Spartan men’s basketball fell to UConn 78-70 in Tuesday’s exhibition game. The competitive preseason matchup offered an early look at Michigan State’s rotation, including several young players who saw significant opportunities despite head coach Tom Izzo’s longstanding preference for experienced lineups.
The first surprise of the night was Jesiah Jervis, a freshman who entered East Lansing as a top-40 prospect. While Jervis did not start Tuesday, he was the first guard off the bench. He finished with 11 points and was one of Michigan State’s most productive offensive players.
SOCIAL MEDIA:
Final from tonight's Exhibition https://t.co/Dzj5EYERw7
— Michigan State Men's Basketball (@MSU_Basketball) October 21, 2026
(CONTINUED) Since Michigan State’s top two centers from last season departed, the position remains unsettled entering the season. Redshirt sophomore Jesse McCulloch had a breakout 20-point performance against Incarnate Word two weeks ago and played 16 minutes Tuesday, finishing with six points.
Senior forward Anton Bonke, a transfer from Eastern Arizona, scored two points and struggled on several defensive assignments in the first half before being replaced by freshman Ethan Taylor in the second. Taylor scored five points in 11 minutes and was part of a group of younger Spartans who saw meaningful playing time against the Huskies.
With some promising wild cards in the rotation, the Spartans are anchored by returning starters Ceon Carr, Jeremy Fears, Jordan Scott, and Cam Ward. The veteran core gives Michigan State room for preseason experimentation, as fans saw Tuesday night. The Spartans will continue evaluating their rotation in another exhibition game against Marquette on Sunday at 1 p.m. in Milwaukee.
