Michigan State closed out its non-conference slate in emphatic fashion Monday night, pulling away from Cornell in the second half to secure a 114-97 win that showcased the full depth and firepower of Tom Izzo’s squad. After a sluggish start that saw them fall behind early, the Spartans flipped the switch after halftime and never looked back.
Cornell came out swinging, catching Michigan State off guard with a fast-paced, confident start. The Big Red built a 16-4 lead right out of the gate and held a double-digit advantage multiple times throughout the first half. Michigan State struggled to find rhythm early, especially on the defensive end, where Cornell’s movement and shot-making kept the Spartans chasing.
But just before the break, the momentum shifted. Jeremy Fears Jr. buried a buzzer-beater to give Michigan State its first lead of the night, 55-53, heading into halftime. It was a subtle turning point, but it set the tone for what became a dominant second-half performance.
The Spartans came out of the locker room with renewed energy and focus, and it showed immediately. Over the first 10 minutes of the second half, Michigan State outscored Cornell 32-12, using their size, speed, and shot selection to overwhelm the visitors. The defense tightened up, transition opportunities opened up, and suddenly the game was out of reach.
Six Spartans finished in double figures, a testament to the balance and unselfishness that’s become a hallmark of this team during its current win streak. Fears Jr. led the way with 21 points and 11 assists, orchestrating the offense with poise beyond his years.
He was everywhere - pushing the pace, finding shooters, and finishing at the rim. Coen Carr added 19 points, continuing his strong stretch of play with a mix of athleticism and touch that’s becoming increasingly hard to defend.
Jaxon Kohler also made his presence felt, notching a double-double with 11 points and 10 rebounds. His work on the glass and in the paint helped anchor Michigan State’s interior presence, especially in the second half when the Spartans began to impose their will physically.
With the win, Michigan State extends its winning streak to four games and improves to 12-1 on the season. The Spartans finish non-conference play with a 10-1 record, their only blemish a close loss to Duke earlier in the year. It’s a stretch that’s helped them build momentum heading into the heart of Big Ten play.
Next up is a major road test: a Friday night showdown against undefeated No. 13 Nebraska in Lincoln.
Tipoff is set for 9 p.m. ET, and it’s one that could have early implications in the conference race.
If the Spartans can carry this second-half form into Big Ten play, they’ll be a tough out for anyone.