Michigan State overcame poor starts in both halves to earn a blowout victory over Niagara on Thursday night from the Breslin Center. The final score was 96-60.
The Spartans dominated in the paint against Niagara, finishing the game with a 52-20 advantage to improve to 2-0 on the year. Michigan State picked up a season-opening win over Monmouth earlier this week as well.
The Spartans fell into a hole early on thanks to sharp shooting from Niagara. The Purple Eagles jumped out to an 11-2 early lead, but Michigan State would respond with a 24-5 run to take the lead.
Michigan State would lead by as many as 13 points in the opening frame, but a mini 5-0 run by Niagara in the final minute cut Michigan State’s advantage to single digits at the break. Michigan State led 46-39 at halftime.
Niagara would continue their hot finish to the first half with a strong start in the second half, cutting the Spartans’ lead to only three points. However, from there, Michigan State ripped off a 26-7 run to take firm control of the game.
Michigan State had five different players reach double-digits in points in the victory over the Purple Eagles. Jaxon Kohler led the way offensively with a career-high 20 points, and 13 rebounds for his second career double-double. Jase Richardson (12 points), Frankie Fidler (11 points), Tre Holloman (11 points) and Jaden Akins (10 points) also hit double-digits in scoring. Jeremy Fears Jr. again did a great job orchestrating the offense with eight assists.
Michigan State will return to the court next week in a national spotlight opportunity against Kansas in the Champions Classic. Tipoff between the Spartans and Jayhawks is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. ET on Tuesday from Atlanta.
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