Michigan State continues its impressive basketball season with a solid home record. On Saturday, the No. 20-ranked Spartans (10-2, 2-0 Big Ten) defeated Florida Atlantic (7-6, 0-0 AAC) with a convincing 86-69 victory at the Breslin Center. The game showcased their strong teamwork and individual talent.
With the Christmas break ahead, their next challenge will be against Western Michigan on December 30. Let’s dive into the key moments and insights shared by the players and coach Tom Izzo after the game.
Coach Tom Izzo’s Reflections
Coach Izzo highlighted the difficulties of preparing for Florida Atlantic:
- Tough Opposition: “It was a wonderful victory for us, but I didn’t like how the game was played all the time. The ball movement became static.”
- Praise for Coen Carr: Sophomore forward Coen Carr earned high praise after scoring 18 points and grabbing eight rebounds. “Coen, no doubt, was the star of the game,” said Izzo.
- Game-Changing Moments: Carr’s explosive dunks led to a 23-9 scoring run, which energized the team and fans. “Those dunks were worth far more than just two points,” Izzo explained.
Standout Players and Key Performances
Several players had exceptional performances, including:
- Coen Carr: His dynamic playing style, including five powerful dunks and a three-pointer, stood out. “It means a lot. I’ve been working on it for a while,” Carr shared about his first career three-pointer.
- Jeremy Fears: The point guard contributed 13 points and eight assists. Izzo praised him, saying, “This was his best game as a Spartan. He showed great leadership in the huddles.”
- Jaxon Kohler: Despite shooting struggles, Kohler dominated the rebounds with 12. Izzo described him as a “man child.”
Team Chemistry and Resilience
Michigan State’s bench reaction after Carr’s three-pointer showed the strong bond among teammates. “The eruption reminded me of when Steven [Izzo] nailed a shot,” said Coach Izzo. This camaraderie highlights the team’s support for one another.
Looking Ahead
Coach Izzo emphasized the need for consistency as the season progresses: “We just have to stay consistent, and we’ve done that so far.” With their current form, the Spartans are poised for continued success.
FAQs About Michigan State’s Recent Game
- What was the score of Michigan State’s game against Florida Atlantic?
Michigan State won 86-69. - Who was the standout player of the game?
Sophomore forward Coen Carr, with 18 points and five dunks. - What did Coach Izzo say about Carr’s performance?
Izzo called him the “star of the game” and noted that his energy changed the momentum. - When is Michigan State’s next game?
The Spartans play Western Michigan on December 30. - What was the key moment of the game?
Carr’s explosive dunks during a 23-9 scoring run were pivotal in the first half.
Michigan State’s victory over FAU showcased their growing potential and strong teamwork. Players like Coen Carr and Jeremy Fears stepped up to lead the team.
With Coach Izzo’s emphasis on consistency, the Spartans are focused on improving throughout the season. Fans eagerly await their next game on December 30, hoping the team will continue their winning streak at home.
