Michigan State basketball is victorious yet again.
The Spartans used a strong defensive effort to handle Minnesota for yet another Big Ten win on Tuesday evening. Michigan State beat Minnesota by the final score of 73-51.
Michigan State used a stifling defensive performance in the opening half to build a sizable lead going into the break. The Spartans forced 11 first-half turnovers for the Golden Gophers, and ended the half on a 15-to-4 run to lead 36-16 at halftime. The Spartans’ strong finish to the half was bolstered by three straight three-pointers from Tre Holloman.
Minnesota came out with more of an offensive punch in the second half, cutting into the Spartans’ lead at times in the frame. However, Michigan State’s lead never got back within single digits in the second half as the Spartans cruised to the win.
Holloman ended the game leading the Spartans in points with 12 — all of which came in the first half. Jaden Akins and Xavier Booker also reached double-digits in points with 10 each. Carson Cooper also was impressive in the win with nine points and 11 rebounds.
Michigan State has now won 13 straight games, with its winning streak dating back to the Maui Invitational. The Spartans are 18-2 overall and 9-0 in Big Ten play.
Next up for Michigan State is a west coast trip. The Spartans will first face USC on Saturday afternoon and then head to UCLA next Tuesday. Tipoff between the Spartans and Trojans is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. ET on Saturday.
Contact/Follow us @The SpartansWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Michigan State news, notes and opinion. You can also follow Robert Bondy on X @RobertBondy5.
