In a Big Ten showdown, No. 23 Wisconsin asserted its dominance, securing a 70-57 victory over host Michigan State in East Lansing, Michigan, as AJ Storr led the way with 22 points. The Badgers (7-2, 1-0) showcased their prowess, particularly on the boards, outrebounding the Spartans 36-22 and notching 19 second-chance points.
Steven Crowl contributed significantly to the Badgers’ success, providing 18 points, six rebounds, and five assists. John Blackwell added 10 points, while Tyler Wahl made his presence felt with eight points and eight rebounds.
The Spartans (4-4, 0-1) faced a tough challenge as Tyson Walker led their offensive efforts with 22 points. A.J. Hoggard was the only other Michigan State player in double figures, contributing 14 points and seven assists.
Wisconsin wasted no time asserting its dominance, jumping to an 11-2 lead as the Spartans struggled, starting the game 1-for-8 from the field. Despite a brief resurgence by Michigan State, Storr embarked on a personal 7-0 run, extending Wisconsin’s advantage to 20-8.
The first half concluded with Storr and Crowl combining for 23 points, propelling Wisconsin to a 34-23 halftime lead. Michigan State faced offensive challenges, with none of their players scoring more than four points in the first half.
The second half saw Wisconsin maintaining control, holding an eight to 13-point lead until Michigan State staged a 12-4 spurt, narrowing the deficit to three points. Walker’s three 3-pointers fueled the comeback, bringing the score to 49-46.
However, Wisconsin responded decisively, going on a 9-0 run to re-establish a double-digit lead. Storr’s 3-pointer and layup, combined with Wahl’s layup, secured the Badgers’ advantage.
Although Walker hit a jumper to break the Spartans’ scoring drought, Wisconsin’s lead proved insurmountable. The game concluded with Wisconsin securing a 70-57 victory and making a strong statement as they embark on their Big Ten season.
