Michigan State Blows Out UCLA Behind Threes, Dominant First Half

The Spartans used a massive first-half run to build a substantial halftime advantage.

Feb. 20, 2026 at 3:55pm

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No. 15 Michigan State left no doubt on which team was better early on, using a 31-5 run in the first half to cruise to an 82-59 victory over UCLA at the Breslin Center on Tuesday night. The Spartans made a season-high 14 three-pointers, led by Jeremy Fears Jr.'s 16 points and 10 assists.

Why it matters

This was a much-needed win for Michigan State, which had lost three of its last four games. The victory improves the Spartans' record to 21-5 overall and 11-4 in Big Ten play, while UCLA dropped to 17-9 and 9-6.

The details

Michigan State's offense was clicking on all cylinders in the first half, as the Spartans went on a 18-0 run and a longer 26-3 spurt to build a double-digit lead. The Bruins struggled mightily, going scoreless for over eight minutes during that stretch. MSU's lead ballooned to as much as 24 points before UCLA cut the deficit to 20 at halftime.

  • The Spartans improved to 21-5 overall and 11-4 during Big Ten play.
  • The Bruins dropped to 17-9 and 9-6, respectively.

The players

Jeremy Fears Jr.

Led Michigan State's scoring attack with 16 points, including four made three-pointers, and completed a double-double with 10 assists.

Tom Izzo

Michigan State's head coach.

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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

MSU will end up getting four days of rest and preparation for its next game, which is another home game against Ohio State on Sunday (1 p.m. ET, CBS).

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.