Michigan State Snaps Skid, Takes Down Illinois in OT Thriller

The Spartans got a much, much-needed win over the Fighting Illini on Saturday night.

Feb. 7, 2026 at 9:55pm

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Michigan State defeated Illinois 85-82 in overtime on Saturday night, snapping a two-game skid and keeping the Spartans alive in the Big Ten title race. Point guard Jeremy Fears Jr. led the way for MSU with 26 points and 15 assists, playing 42 minutes and never showing fatigue. The game was tightly contested throughout, with neither team leading by more than six points in the first half. Illinois led 39-35 at halftime, but Michigan State was able to tie it up and take the lead in the second half before the game went to overtime.

Why it matters

This was a crucial win for Michigan State, which had lost two straight games and needed to bounce back against a top-5 opponent to keep its Big Ten title hopes alive. The Spartans' victory over Illinois gives them a big resume-boosting win and keeps them in the conference championship race.

The details

Michigan State trailed by as many as nine points in the second half, but fought back to tie the game and take the lead late. After Illinois forced overtime, the Spartans were able to pull away in the extra period, getting key contributions from Jeremy Fears Jr. and Cam Ward to secure the victory.

  • The game was played on Saturday, February 7, 2026 in East Lansing, Michigan.
  • Michigan State's next game is at Wisconsin on Friday.

The players

Jeremy Fears Jr.

The Spartans' point guard, who led the team with 26 points and 15 assists in the victory.

Jaxon Kohler

The Michigan State forward who had 8 points and 5 rebounds in the first half.

Kur Teng

The Spartans' guard who hit a crucial 3-pointer late in regulation to tie the game and send it to overtime.

Cam Ward

The Michigan State player who hit two free throws late to give the Spartans the lead in regulation.

Brad Underwood

The head coach of the Illinois Fighting Illini.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.