East Lansing, Mich. - As Michigan State gears up for its penultimate home game of the season against Ohio State on Sunday, Feb. 22, fans are buzzing with anticipation. This matchup marks the only meeting between the two teams this year, and it promises to be a thrilling encounter. Catch all the action live on CBS at 1 p.m., with the dynamic duo of Kevin Harlan and Robbie Hummel on the call.
About the Spartans
The Spartans are riding high with a 21-5 overall record (11-4 in the Big Ten) after an impressive 82-59 victory over UCLA. Ranked No. 15 in the latest AP and ESPN Coaches polls, Michigan State is proving to be a force to be reckoned with.
They're also making waves in the NCAA Net Rankings at No. 12 and holding the No. 10 spot per KenPom. With at least six Quad 1 wins, they're among an elite group of 17 schools nationally with significant victories.
The Spartans are showcasing their prowess with a standout No. 10 national ranking in assists, averaging 18.6 per game, spearheaded by Jeremy Fears Jr., who leads the nation with 9.3 assists per game. Their dominance on the boards is equally impressive, ranking third nationally in rebound margin (+12.5), thanks in part to Jaxon Kohler, who is second in the Big Ten with 9.3 rebounds per game.
Defensively, Michigan State is no slouch, ranking No. 23 nationally in scoring defense (66.4 ppg) and No. 6 in adjusted defensive efficiency. They also lead the Big Ten and rank No. 11 nationally in fast break points, averaging 17.3 per game.
Key Players
The Spartans' success is driven by their captains-Cooper, Kohler, Carr, and Fears Jr.-who account for a substantial 62.5% of the team's scoring. Jeremy Fears Jr. is not only a playmaker but also the team's top scorer with 15.1 points per game. Jaxon Kohler follows with 12.4 points and leads in rebounding, while Coen Carr and Carson Cooper provide crucial support, each contributing significantly in points and rebounds.
Michigan State's depth is evident with four players averaging double figures in scoring and eight players contributing at least 5.0 points per game. This balanced attack makes them a formidable opponent on any given night.
Defend, Rebound & Run
Under Coach Tom Izzo, Michigan State's mantra of "Defend, Rebound & Run" is alive and well. Their defensive stats are among the best in the nation, and their ability to control the boards and capitalize on fast breaks makes them a challenging matchup for any team.
Core Four
Coach Izzo has emphasized the importance of the team's core four-Cooper, Kohler, Carr, and Fears Jr.-in driving the Spartans' success. Together, they average 49.3 points, 24.3 rebounds, and 13.2 assists, contributing significantly to the team's overall performance.
Series History
In their storied rivalry, Michigan State leads Ohio State 81-63 in all-time meetings. The Spartans have been particularly dominant at home, with a 49-18 record against the Buckeyes, including a 22-6 mark at the Breslin Center. Although Ohio State claimed victory in their last visit to East Lansing in 2024, Michigan State is eager to defend their home turf.
With the stakes high and the season winding down, this game is set to be a pivotal clash. Fans can expect a showcase of skill, strategy, and Spartan spirit as Michigan State looks to continue their impressive run.