Michigan State Basketball Overpowers Bryant, Eyes Sweet 16 Spot
Michigan State basketball proved once again why they are a force to be reckoned with in March Madness. Despite a sluggish first half, the No. 7 seed Spartans dominated No. 15 seed Bryant in an 87-62 rout in their NCAA Tournament opener. Led by Coen Carr’s career-high 18 points and nine rebounds, the Spartans flexed their depth and resilience, setting up a second-round showdown against No. 10 seed New Mexico.
A Shaky Start Turns into Second-Half Domination
For the first 20 minutes, Michigan State found themselves in an unexpected battle. The late-night tipoff, first-game jitters, and Bryant’s physical start rattled the Spartans early.
"We didn't come out with any energy, and they punched us in the mouth," freshman Jase Richardson admitted.
The Bulldogs took advantage, leading 21-19 midway through the first half. But as the Spartans settled in, their intensity and depth took over. They closed the half with a dominant rebounding stretch, grabbing 10 of the last 11 boards and outmuscling Bryant 39-12 on the glass over the final 26 minutes.
From that point on, it was all Michigan State.
Spartans Flex Their Strength in the Paint and Beyond
Michigan State's relentless rebounding and second-chance scoring proved too much for Bryant. The Spartans recorded a season-high 21 offensive rebounds, leading to a 31-6 advantage in second-chance points.
"We were getting open looks, we were getting easy buckets inside, and we were getting stops," Richardson said.
Key contributors included:
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Coen Carr: 18 points, 9 rebounds (6 offensive)
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Jase Richardson: 15 points, 3 three-pointers
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Jeremy Fears Jr.: 11 points, 6 assists
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Carson Cooper: 9 rebounds, strong defensive presence
With 54 total rebounds, 10 three-pointers, and 46 bench points, Michigan State showcased their versatility and depth.
What’s Next: A Battle Against New Mexico
With the win, Michigan State (28-6) advances to face No. 10 seed New Mexico (27-7) on Sunday night (8:40 p.m. ET, TNT). The Lobos punched their ticket with a 75-66 upset over Marquette.
Head coach Tom Izzo knows his team must start stronger to avoid another first-half scare.
"In this tournament, the 'my bads' don't work. You have to trust your coaches and teammates. We have to be locked in from the jump," Izzo emphasized.
As Michigan State aims for its 16th Sweet 16 appearance under Izzo, Sunday’s game will be a crucial test. If they replicate their dominant second-half performance, the Spartans could be one step closer to another deep March Madness run.
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