The Michigan State basketball seniors will go out as victors in their final home game at the Breslin Center.
Michigan State used a hot start and strong finish to hold off Ohio State and end the regular season with a 84-78 victory on Saturday. This was potentially the final home game at the Breslin Center for Joey Hauser, Malik Hall, Tyson Walker and Jason Whitens.
Michigan State started the game on the right foot, jumping out to an early 13-point lead thanks to a 12-0 run. The Buckeyes would chip away at that lead but the Spartans ended the opening half strong to carry a 43-34 lead into the break.
The Buckeyes wouldn’t go away easy in the second half, with Ohio State cutting the Spartans lead to just three points with five minutes to go in the game. However, Michigan State would never surrender their lead throughout the second half and eventually ice the victory at the free throw line late.
Michigan State was led offensively by A.J. Hoggard who scored 23 points and dished out seven assists. Hauser (16 points), Walker (15 points), Jaden Akins (13 points) and Hall (10 points) each also reached double-digits in points on Saturday.
Michigan State finishes the regular season with victories in five of their final seven games. The Spartans now sit at 19-11 overall and 11-8 in conference play. Michigan State is in position to potentially earn a double-bye in next week’s Big Ten Tournament, but will have to wait until all of tomorrow’s games are completed before they know their final standings position in the league.
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