Michigan State Holds Off Rutgers in Nail-Biter on Senior Night

Spartans nearly blow 19-point lead but hang on for 91-87 victory

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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Michigan State University's men's basketball team survived a late scare from Rutgers University on Senior Night, winning 91-87 after nearly blowing a 19-point lead in the final minutes. Jeremy Fears Jr. and Coen Carr led the way for the Spartans with 21 points each, while seniors Jaxon Kohler and Carson Cooper also made key contributions.

Why it matters

This was an important win for Michigan State as they look to build momentum heading into their final regular season game against rival Michigan. The Spartans nearly let the game slip away, raising questions about their ability to close out tight contests, but ultimately held on for the victory on a special night honoring their seniors.

The details

Michigan State jumped out to a 31-30 halftime lead despite 10 first-half turnovers. The Spartans then opened the second half on a 7-0 run and extended their advantage to as much as 19 points, fueled by a highlight-reel stretch of alley-oop dunks. However, Rutgers mounted a furious late comeback, cutting the deficit to just seven points in the final minute before Michigan State was able to seal the win at the free throw line.

  • The game was played on Senior Night at the Breslin Center in East Lansing, Michigan.
  • Michigan State and Rutgers were tied 31-31 at halftime.
  • Michigan State opened the second half on a 7-0 run to take a 38-31 lead.
  • The Spartans extended their lead to as much as 19 points in the second half.
  • Rutgers mounted a late 19-6 run to cut Michigan State's lead to just seven points in the final minute.

The players

Jeremy Fears Jr.

A sophomore guard for Michigan State who scored 21 points in the game.

Coen Carr

A junior forward for Michigan State who also scored 21 points and provided several highlight-reel dunks.

Jaxon Kohler

A senior forward for Michigan State who scored 15 points and grabbed 13 rebounds.

Carson Cooper

A senior forward for Michigan State who scored 14 points in his final home game.

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What’s next

Michigan State will travel to Ann Arbor on Sunday to face the #3 Michigan Wolverines in their final regular season game.

The takeaway

Despite nearly blowing a big lead late, Michigan State's win on Senior Night showed the team's resilience and ability to make key plays down the stretch. However, the close call also exposed some areas for improvement as the Spartans prepare for their rivalry matchup with Michigan and the postseason.