EAST LANSING, Mich. — No. 3 Michigan dominated No. 7 Michigan State from the start and never looked back in a Big Ten game at the Breslin Center. The Wolverines built a big first-half lead and took it into the locker room, forcing the Spartans to play catch-up for the rest of the game.
Michigan’s offense was clicking early, and some turnovers by MSU helped the Wolverines speed up the pace and get easy baskets before halftime. By halftime, Michigan had an 18-point lead over the Spartans.
Michigan State tried to make a comeback in the second half. Jeremy Fears Jr. led the charge, putting up a career-high 31 points along with seven assists. He also added five rebounds and four steals, keeping the Spartans in the game for a while.
Despite the push from Michigan State, the Wolverines hit big shots and key free throws down the stretch to pull away. Michigan’s Yaxel Lendeborg had a strong performance with 26 points and 12 rebounds, while Elliot Cadeau added 17 points.
The win gives Michigan momentum in the Big Ten and shows the team’s ability to take control early and maintain it even when their opponent fights back. The Wolverines’ balanced scoring and strong defense will be key as they continue through the season, giving them confidence heading into their next conference matchups.
