Izzo Leads Michigan State to Victory over Arkansas
In a tightly contested matchup, No. 22 Michigan State edged out No. 14 Arkansas with a final score of 69-66. This thrilling game took place on Saturday night in East Lansing, Michigan. Freshman Cam Ward was a standout for the Spartans, contributing 18 points and securing 10 rebounds.
Key Performers
Coen Carr also made a significant impact, scoring 15 points and grabbing seven rebounds. The Spartans demonstrated their prowess on the boards, collecting a total of 19 offensive rebounds, which they converted into 18 crucial points. This rebounding ability is a hallmark of Coach Tom Izzo’s program, now in its 31st year.
Arkansas Razorbacks Under Coach Calipari
Arkansas, led by Coach John Calipari, featured promising freshmen Darius Acuff Jr. and Meleek Thomas. Acuff, a Detroit native, scored 16 points but struggled with his shooting, finishing 5-of-16 from the field, while also dishing out six assists. Thomas, hailing from Pittsburgh, matched that score, going 5-of-15 from the floor.
Game Highlights
- Arkansas launched an 8-0 scoring run to tie the game at 66 with 1:41 remaining.
- Carson Cooper broke a scoring drought for Michigan State, hitting a go-ahead free throw.
- Jeremy Fears Jr. drew a foul on Acuff, sinking two free throws to give the Spartans a three-point advantage.
- In the final moments, Thomas missed a critical 3-pointer, leaving Arkansas with a chance to win.
Despite a scoreless first half, Cooper finished with nine points, all coming in the second period. After Jordan Scott missed two free throws, Acuff attempted a last-gasp 3-pointer but failed to connect. The Razorbacks retained possession after a timeout called by Izzo, but Trevon Brazile’s shot missed the mark, sealing Michigan State’s victory.
First Half Overview
In the first half, Arkansas held a narrow lead, largely due to D.J. Wagner’s performance. He scored eight of his total 13 points before halftime, helping the Razorbacks go into the break with a slight 39-36 advantage.
Conclusion
This victory improves Michigan State’s record to 2-0, while Arkansas falls to 1-1. Both teams showcased their talent, promising exciting seasons ahead.
