Michigan State finds its edge vs NDSU, eyes the next step vs Louisville
MSU dismantled NDSU behind balance and adjustments, now turn to a high-paced Louisville matchup with a Sweet 16 berth in sight
The Spartans advanced to the second round of the NCAA Tournament after defeating the North Dakota State Bison, 92–67, in Buffalo, NY. This game had all the trappings of a potential upset: a tough-minded, deep, good-shooting opponent with no fear and a long winning streak.
The Spartans, however, led by Jeremy Fears Jr.’s strong defense and 11 assists, and Carson Cooper’s dominant 20-point, 10-rebound performance, along with strong supporting efforts from Coen Carr (17 points), Jaxon Kohler (12 points and 9 rebounds), and Cam Ward (13 points on 6-for-6 shooting), took control midway through the first half and never looked back.
This was a confident, determined, and focused effort on both ends. The Spartans hit their free throws, kept their turnovers to 12 (most coming with the game already in control), knocked down their open three-point shots (10-for-20 for 50%), and dominated the glass (+12 rebounding margin).
A team that had lost its last two games and had seen its defensive prowess fade over the final weeks of the season was locked in from the early stages. The Spartans ran their actions cleanly, screened well, and passed with typical unselfishness, finishing with 26 assists on 33 made baskets.
While the final score accurately reflected the Spartans’ dominance, they had to figure out how to crack the NDSU defense early. It was freshman Cam Ward who, after checking into the game for Jaxon Kohler with the Spartans down 8–5, helped change the game.
