In a tightly contested matchup, Michigan State faced off against the University of Michigan, ultimately falling short with a 90-80 loss. Despite the defeat, the Spartans showed resilience, putting up 80 points on the road against the No. 3 team in the nation-a feat not many can claim.
Let's break down the performances from this season finale:
Jeremy Fears Jr.: B+
Jeremy Fears Jr. delivered a solid performance, showcasing his potential as a future All-Big Ten first-teamer. With 22 points and nine assists, Fears was a key playmaker, even if his 5-for-13 shooting wasn't his best. Coach Izzo praised his relentless effort, and while his incident with Elliot Cadeau drew attention, it seemed more accidental than intentional.
Jaxon Kohler: A
Jaxon Kohler stepped up when it mattered most. The senior big man dominated with 23 points and eight rebounds, shooting an impressive 10-of-13 from the field. His flawless play-no turnovers against top-tier defenders-was a testament to his growth and readiness for the postseason.
Jordan Scott: B-
Jordan Scott faced challenges offensively, going 1-for-7 in a crucial game. Yet, his contributions went beyond scoring, adding two rebounds, two blocks, and two steals. His ability to impact the game defensively will be crucial as the Spartans head into tournament play.
Coen Carr: B
While Coen Carr had a quieter game offensively with six points, his presence on the boards was notable. Grabbing seven rebounds, Carr's improvement as a rebounder was evident. He had a slip on a Yaxel Lendeborg drive, but his overall effort was commendable.
Carson Cooper: A
Carson Cooper continued to impress, proving himself as one of the most improved players this season. With 19 points and six rebounds, he maintained over 50 percent shooting. Despite foul trouble limiting his minutes, Cooper's influence on both ends was undeniable.
Kur Teng: B-
Kur Teng struggled with consistency, hitting just two of his eight shots. However, his two crucial three-pointers kept the Spartans in contention. Teng's ability to find his rhythm will be vital moving forward.
Cam Ward: C
Cam Ward had a challenging outing, contributing no points and picking up four fouls in just nine minutes. It wasn't his day, but his potential remains for future games.
Denham Wojcik: C
Denham Wojcik's stat line was sparse, with no points or assists. While his size presents challenges against aggressive opponents, his role as a backup remains important for the team's depth.
Overall, the Spartans showed glimpses of their potential, and as they prepare for the NCAA Tournament, these performances provide a foundation to build upon.