No. 14 Michigan State pulled away in the second half to take down No. 12 Michigan 75-62 in Ann Arbor, securing a crucial Big Ten road victory.
📊 MORE: Michigan vs. Michigan State final stats
The Spartans (22-5, 13-3 Big Ten) erased a four-point halftime deficit by outscoring Michigan 41-24 after the break, leaning on their defense and depth to stall the Wolverines (20-6, 12-3). Jase Richardson led Michigan State with 21 points and Tre Holloman notched 18.
Michigan controlled most of the first half with Vladislav Goldin leading the way. The 7-footer finished with 21 points and five rebounds, but the Wolverines' offense declined, shooting just 37.5% in the second half and going 1-for-10 from beyond the arc.
Tre Holloman goes back-to-back-to-back from beyond the arc 😲 on FOX ��
— Big Ten Men's Basketball (@B1GMBBall)
Michigan State took control midway through the second half when Holloman drilled back-to-back threes and another three on the ensuing drive, creating a 9-2 run that pushed the Spartans ahead for good. Their defense held Michigan without a field basket for nearly five minutes down the stretch, forcing turnovers that led to transition points.
The Spartans dominated the boards, outrebounding Michigan 34-25, including 14 offensive rebounds that led to 15 second-chance points. Carson Cooper provided a big boost off the bench with six points and eight rebounds, while Richardson and Jeremy Fears Jr. controlled the backcourt.
With the win, Michigan State moves into first place in the Big Ten standings, setting the stage for a high-stakes rematch with Michigan on March 9 in East Lansing. The Wolverines, who saw their six-game winning streak snapped, will look to bounce back in a quick turnaround against Nebraska.
