Michigan State Defeats Wisconsin 71-62, Moves Closer to Big Ten Title

Michigan State took down Wisconsin 71-62 in a crucial Big Ten matchup. The Spartans started slow, struggling on both ends of the floor early, but locked in defensively and picked up the pace offensively, trailing by just one point at halftime (32-34). In the second half, MSU’s defense took over, allowing just two points in the final 4:06. That late-game lockdown gave the offense enough time to take the lead and ice the game at the free-throw line.

Keys to the Win

Offense

Once again, MSU’s depth played a role, with all ten players who saw the floor contributing to the scoring. A major factor in the win was offensive rebounding, as the Spartans secured 13 second-chance opportunities. Their three-point shooting was also solid, finishing 9-for-27 from deep.

Jaden Akins

Jaden Akins led the Spartans with 19 points, shaking off his recent shooting struggles with a 4-for-9 performance from three. His confidence seemed to grow as the game went on, and he also contributed three offensive rebounds, adding to MSU’s dominance on the boards.

Jaxon Kohler

Jaxon Kohler was an absolute force on the glass, grabbing a career-high 16 rebounds, including seven on the offensive end. His rebounding effort fueled MSU’s extra possessions, and he capped off the performance with 10 points, earning a well-deserved double-double.

Carson Cooper & Jeremy Fears

Carson Cooper may not be known for his scoring, but his ability to finish alley-oops was on display. He tallied 8 points on 4-of-6 shooting, with Jeremy Fears Jr. setting him up multiple times. Fears finished with five assists and, notably, had zero turnovers, providing a steady presence at point guard.

Defense

MSU’s defensive intensity in the second half was the difference-maker. Wisconsin, one of the best three-point shooting teams in the conference, was held to a dismal 5-for-32 from beyond the arc. The Spartans also kept the Badgers off the offensive glass, limiting them to just eight second-chance opportunities—below their season average.

Wisconsin’s leading scorer, John Tonje, was completely stifled. He finished with just 11 points on an inefficient 3-of-13 shooting, including 1-for-8 from three. MSU’s perimeter defense stayed disciplined, contesting shots and forcing the Badgers into uncomfortable attempts all night.

MVP

Setting a career-high in rebounds in a top-11 matchup is impressive, but doing it while securing a double-double makes Kohler the clear MVP of this game. His relentless work on the boards gave MSU the extra possessions they needed to take control.

Up Next

With Illinois dominating Michigan, MSU now has a chance to clinch at least a share of the Big Ten regular-season title with a win at Iowa on Thursday. The Hawkeyes (15-14, 6-12 Big Ten) have struggled this season, presenting MSU with a golden opportunity to solidify their spot at the top.

JT Sports