Recap
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Did Michigan State Spartans Outpace Cornell Big Red with Fast Breaks at Breslin Center?

First Half


The Michigan State Spartans showcased their dominance in a high-scoring affair against the Cornell Big Red, finishing with a 114-97 victory. The game, held at the Jack Breslin Student Events Center, saw the Spartans improve their record to 9-0 while Cornell fell to 0-9. The first half was marked by intense competition as both teams exchanged leads multiple times. The Green and White managed to edge out a slight advantage by halftime, leading 55-53.


Dec 29, 2025; East Lansing, Michigan, USA;  Michigan State Spartans forward Cameron Ward (3) scores while off balance during the second half against the Cornell Big Red at Jack Breslin Student Events Center. Mandatory Credit: Dale Young-Imagn Images

Key contributors for the Spartans included Jeremy Fears Jr., who orchestrated plays with precision, racking up an impressive 11 assists alongside his 21 points. His ability to find open teammates was crucial in maintaining offensive momentum. Additionally, Coen Carr's presence in the paint was felt as he contributed significantly with his rebounding efforts and added 19 points.


Second Half


As play resumed after halftime, Michigan State intensified their pace and capitalized on fast break opportunities that left Cornell scrambling defensively. This tactical shift proved effective as they scored an impressive total of 33 fast break points throughout the game. Divine Ugochukwu also made his mark by adding defensive pressure which translated into quick transitions for easy baskets.


Dec 29, 2025; East Lansing, Michigan, USA;  Michigan State Spartans forward Coen Carr (55) dunks on a slash from the side against the Cornell Big Red during the second half at Jack Breslin Student Events Center. Mandatory Credit: Dale Young-Imagn Images

Cornell's attempts to keep pace were led by their bench players who collectively added substantial points but struggled against Michigan State’s relentless attack and efficient shooting from beyond the arc where they hit at a rate of 46 percent.


Michigan State Spartans vs Cornell Big Red Key Moments


One of the pivotal moments came when Kaleb Glenn made back-to-back three-pointers early in the second half that extended Spartan's lead significantly and set them on course for victory. Despite several attempts from Big Red to close down this gap through strategic plays and drawing fouls effectively—resulting in them achieving an admirable free throw percentage of 78 percent—their efforts were ultimately thwarted by Spartan’s superior team play.


Dec 29, 2025; East Lansing, Michigan, USA;  Michigan State Spartans forward Cameron Ward (3) splits the Cornell Big Red defenders for a dunk during the second half at Jack Breslin Student Events Center. Mandatory Credit: Dale Young-Imagn Images

The final whistle blew amidst cheers from nearly full attendance at Breslin Center as fans celebrated another successful outing for their team—a sentiment echoed during post-game discussions encapsulated under "Michigan State Spartans final whistle reaction."


Looking ahead, fans can catch more action when Michigan State travels next week to face Nebraska Cornhuskers on January 2nd at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln; tip-off is scheduled for 9:00 PM EST with live coverage available via Peacock Internet streaming service.


For those eager not just about results but understanding how each play unfolded—stay tuned! Share your thoughts or this article within your community today!

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