What's Happening?
The Michigan State Spartans basketball team, ranked No. 22, secured an 80-69 victory over Colgate on November 3, 2025. Senior forward Jaxon Kohler led the team with 16 points and 15 rebounds. Despite the win,
head coach Tom Izzo expressed dissatisfaction with the team's performance, citing a lack of offensive rhythm and the need for improvement. The Spartans struggled throughout the game, with Colgate keeping the score close and tying the game twice in the second half. A key moment came when forward Coen Carr initiated a 21-6 run, helping Michigan State pull away. Point guard Jeremy Fears Jr. also contributed significantly with 14 points, 10 assists, five rebounds, and five steals.
Why It's Important?
This game highlights the challenges Michigan State faces as they adjust to a new lineup after losing key players who accounted for a significant portion of last season's scoring. The team's performance against Colgate raises concerns about their readiness for upcoming tougher opponents, such as No. 14 Arkansas. The outcome of these games could impact their ranking and momentum in the season. The Spartans' ability to adapt and improve will be crucial as they aim to maintain their status as a top contender in college basketball.
What's Next?
Michigan State is set to face Arkansas on November 4, 2025, in what promises to be a challenging matchup. The game will test the Spartans against a team with a deep roster of prospective NBA talent. Coach Izzo has emphasized the need for his team to improve to avoid being embarrassed by stronger opponents. The upcoming game will also feature a coaching face-off between Izzo and Arkansas head coach John Calipari, adding another layer of interest to the encounter.
