UConn came out and completely dominated the game, jumping to a 25-6 lead and setting the tone early.
But once Michigan State settled in, the game flipped.
The Spartans closed the first half strong, cutting the deficit to eight by halftime, then carried that momentum into the second half. With 3:49 left, Michigan State took a 45-44 lead, completing the comeback and putting UConn in trouble.
From that point on, this was Michigan State’s game to win.
Michigan State outplayed UConn after UConn went up 25-6 in the first half -especially on the boards, out-rebounding UConn 39-30 for the game-Michigan State had the edge in execution. Michigan State was more disciplined, particularly in the half court, where their ball movement consistently created advantages.
UConn had problems defensively.
UConn struggled defending the pick-and-roll and had issues dealing with Michigan State’s half-court ball movement, which led to quality looks and kept the Spartans in the game for long stretches. The second-half score (36-32) doesn’t fully reflect how much pressure Michigan State applied.
Michigan State couldn't execute
Late UConn made the plays.
With 1:39 left, Alex Karaban hit a crucial three to give UConn a 61-57 lead.
Michigan State answered right back, as Jeremy Fears Jr. knocked down a three to cut it to 61-60, keeping the pressure on.
But UConn closed it at the line.
Tarris Reed Jr. delivered in the final seconds, hitting free throws to ice the game at 67-63 with 4.6 seconds left.
UConn had issues throughout. The point guard play lacked penetration, which stalled the offense and forced tough shots.
But in the end, experience made the difference.
With a roster built around juniors and seniors, UConn stayed composed late and made the plays Michigan State couldn’t.
Key Performers (UConn):
T. Reed Jr. - 20 pts, 5 reb, 4 ast
A. Karaban - 17 pts, 7 reb, 3 ast
S. Ball - 12 pts
Team Shooting:
UConn - 46% (24-52)
Michigan State - 40% (23-58)
