On a cold Tuesday night in East Lansing, the Breslin Center was buzzing-and not just because of Big Ten basketball. Michigan State hosted Iowa in a matchup that gave fans a glimpse of the Spartans’ depth, athleticism, and some emerging chemistry that Tom Izzo has been working to build early this season.
From the opening tip, Izzo was locked in-calling out instructions, pacing the sideline, and doing what he’s done for decades: pulling every ounce of effort out of his team. And the Spartans responded.
Fresh Faces, Big Moments
One of the first things that stood out? The energy from Michigan State’s young core.
Carson Cooper battled in the paint early, going up strong against Iowa’s Tavion Banks. It wasn’t just about the shot-it was the confidence, the willingness to go right at a defender and set the tone physically.
Jaxon Kohler also made his presence felt, not just on offense but on the defensive end. In one key first-half moment, he stepped up to contest a shot by Cam Manyawu, using his frame and positioning to disrupt the rhythm of Iowa’s attack. Kohler’s physicality would become a theme as the game wore on.
Jordan Scott had a gritty stretch in the first half, including a trip to the free-throw line after drawing contact. Later, he took a hard fall-one of those moments that makes the whole arena hold its breath-but was helped up by none other than Iowa head coach Ben McCollum and a referee. It was a small gesture, but a reminder of the respect that exists in these high-stakes conference matchups.
Jeremy Fears Jr. had his fingerprints all over the first half, orchestrating the offense and setting up teammates like Coen Carr with precision. One assist, in particular, led to a highlight-reel dunk from Carr that sent the Breslin Center into a frenzy. It was the kind of play that doesn’t just energize the crowd-it galvanizes a team.
Carr Takes Flight
Speaking of Coen Carr, the high-flying forward put on a show. His dunks-plural-were a statement.
He wasn’t just finishing plays; he was finishing them with authority. Whether it was in transition or off a feed from Fears Jr., Carr’s athleticism was undeniable.
But what really stood out was how quickly he got back on defense after scoring. That kind of hustle tells you this kid isn’t just trying to make highlight reels-he’s trying to win.
Halftime Vibes and a Football Cameo
As the teams headed into the locker room, there was a brief but notable moment during a timeout: newly hired Michigan State football coach Pat Fitzgerald addressed the crowd. It was a symbolic passing of the torch moment-a new era for Spartans football introduced in the heart of a basketball game, in front of a fan base that lives and breathes green and white.
The reception was warm, and the timing? Perfect.
Second Half: Toughness and Teamwork
Coming out of the break, Michigan State didn’t let up. Carr continued to attack the rim, and the Spartans’ defense tightened. Kohler took a shot to the head while battling for a rebound, a physical reminder of how grueling Big Ten play can be.
Trey Fort showed poise under pressure, navigating Iowa’s defense and looking to distribute. Denham Wojcik drew a foul on a strong drive, and Jesse McCulloch added a spark with a smooth three-pointer that stretched the lead and forced Iowa to adjust.
McCulloch wasn’t just hitting shots-he was moving the ball well and staying active on both ends. And when Cam Ward celebrated a big moment late in the game, you could feel the momentum fully swing toward the Spartans.
The Takeaway
This wasn’t just a win-it was a showcase of what Michigan State can be when its young players step up, when the veterans grind, and when the team plays with Izzo’s trademark edge. The Spartans showed flashes of the kind of identity they’re building: physical, fast, unselfish, and relentless.
There’s still a long road ahead in the Big Ten, but if Tuesday night is any indication, Michigan State is starting to find its rhythm-and that should have the rest of the conference on alert.