Michigan State Outshines UCLA in Recent Matchup
EAST LANSING, Mich. — In a commanding performance on Tuesday night, Jeremy Fears Jr. recorded 16 points and 10 assists, guiding No. 15 Michigan State to an 82-59 victory over UCLA.
The Spartans improved their record to 21-5 overall and 11-4 in the Big Ten, bouncing back after losing three of their previous four games. Fears made a significant impact early, scoring 11 points in the first half, which helped Michigan State build a decisive 20-point lead by halftime.
UCLA, now 17-9 and 9-6 in conference play, has suffered two consecutive defeats after a stretch that saw them win five of six games. Forward Tyler Bilodeau led the Bruins with 22 points, though he received limited support; only Skyy Clark joined him in double figures, finishing with 12 points after hitting some late shots.
Fears showcased his shooting ability by making three three-pointers in the first half, concluding the game with a career-high four threes on the night. Michigan State’s three-point shooting was notably effective, as they finished the half making eight of 14 attempts and ended the game with 14 threes on 27 tries.
Coen Carr contributed significantly for the Spartans with 16 points, while Carson Cooper added 12, and freshman Jordan Scott chipped in with 11 points. Jaxon Kohler also made his mark, securing nine points and grabbing 10 rebounds.
UCLA has struggled defensively in recent games, notably being outscored by 28 points in the second half against No. 1 Michigan, leading to a 30-point loss during that matchup. The Bruins faced another challenging defeat against Michigan State, compounded by a flagrant foul called on center Steven Jamerson late in the game for a rough play against Cooper, which resulted in him being sent to the locker room by Bruins coach Mick Cronin.
Transfer Xavier Booker from Michigan State had a subdued performance, contributing two points and two rebounds in 25 minutes of play.
