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Michigan State picked up their first road win of the season on Wednesday night, with an impressive victory over Butler, 73-52, from Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The game was part of the annual Gavitt Games that pits the Big Ten and Big East.
The Spartans never trailed after the opening minutes and led by double-digits for most of the game. With the win, Michigan State improves to 2-1 on the season.
Michigan State led for nearly the entire first half, building an early double-digit lead. Butler didn’t fade, however, and was able to narrow the Spartans’ lead to just eight points for a 31-23 halftime score.
Michigan State opened the second half similar to the opening frame, building a 17-point lead by the 12-minute mark of the half. Butler never stopped fighting but the Spartans’ margin never fell back into single digits down the stretch.
The Spartans were led offensively by Gabe Brown and Max Christie, who finished with 19 and 18 points on the night. Tyson Walker and A.J. Hoggard helped facilitate all night with nine combined assists.
Defensively, Michigan State was led by Marcus Bingham with six blocks and two steals. He also scored 10 points and snagged six boards against Butler.
While Michigan State did handle business against Butler, there is still room for improvement. The Spartans were again sloppy at times and ended the game with 20 turnovers.
Michigan State returns to the court on Saturday against Eastern Michigan. That home game will begin at 5 p.m. EST.
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