WEST LAFAYETTE, IN – The Michigan State Spartans have turned heads as they head into March Madness, marking a significant victory against rival Purdue. On February 26, the Spartans ended a 12-year, seven-game losing streak at Mackey Arena, securing a thrilling 76-74 win, led by a blend of young talent and seasoned players.
Freshman talents Jordan Scott, Kur Teng, and Cam Ward were pivotal in this victory, combining for 30 points, nine rebounds, and four steals. “We’re not as talented as some teams you’ve seen us have over the years,” remarked head coach Tom Izzo. However, he emphasized the importance of camaraderie and connection within the team, stating, “Together and connected does a lot.”
Scott’s performance included nine points, three assists, and an impactful defense that limited reigning Big Ten player of the year Braden Smith to just 12 points. Since being inserted into the starting lineup on February 4, Scott has been averaging 9.3 points and notably shooting over 52% from three-point range.
Teng’s resurgence continued with a strong outing, scoring 13 points on 3-for-6 shooting from beyond the arc. His contributions included a dynamic play that culminated in a windmill dunk by Coen Carr, which played a crucial role in the Spartans’ second-half surge. Ward, filling gaps in the post, showcased his improvement by scoring eight points and grabbing four rebounds, all while effectively neutralizing Purdue’s Oscar Cluff.
Despite the challenges faced earlier in the season, including a rough patch in January and February, the team is now positioned favorably for the upcoming Big Ten Tournament. With a record of 23-5 and currently 13-4 in the conference, MSU is contending for a top seed that could lead to a triple-bye. The Spartans’ upcoming schedule includes matchups against Indiana, Rutgers, and Michigan, with the latter game promising to be a crucial final test before the playoffs.
Izzo commented on the team’s progress, noting, “We’ve put ourselves in position where now we have a measuring stick to say, ‘This is what you do when you prepare well.’” This sentiment reflects the squad’s resolve and growth as they look to harness their momentum following this significant victory.
The Spartans’ next challenge will be against the Indiana Hoosiers on Sunday, March 1, at 3:45 p.m., providing another opportunity for MSU to solidify its standing as they prepare for postseason play.