Full Breakdown
Michigan State Spartans Secure Exhibition Win Over Bowling Green
10/24/2025, 2:54:40 PM
Exhibition Game Overview
On October 23, 2025, the Michigan State Spartans defeated the Bowling Green Falcons 75-66 in an exhibition game at the Breslin Center in East Lansing, Michigan. This matchup served as the first competitive test for a revamped Spartans roster, which has undergone significant changes since last season. The game was marked by a strong second-half performance from Michigan State, which included a decisive 17-4 run after Bowling Green tied the game at 57.
Key Performances
Coen Carr led the Spartans with an impressive all-around performance, contributing 17 points, five rebounds, four assists, and five blocks. Jaxon Kohler added a double-double with 15 points and 10 rebounds, while Jeremy Fears Jr. nearly achieved a double-double with 12 points and nine assists. Bowling Green's Sam Towns was a standout for the Falcons, scoring a game-high 20 points.
Tom Izzo's Assessment
Head coach Tom Izzo acknowledged both the positives and negatives of his team's performance. He noted the effective ball movement, which resulted in 24 assists on 27 baskets, and highlighted the team's defensive struggles. "I didn't think we guarded anybody. That was very disappointing," Izzo stated, emphasizing the need for improvement in defensive consistency and rebounding.
Izzo also expressed optimism about the team's shooting capabilities, stating, "I think we're a better shooting team than we were last year," despite some missed opportunities during the game. He pointed out the importance of free-throw shooting, mentioning that the team had worked hard on this aspect in practice.
Areas for Improvement
The Spartans faced challenges in rebounding, narrowly losing the battle on the boards 42-41. Izzo noted that poor defense often leads to difficulties in securing rebounds. Additionally, the team struggled with three-point shooting, finishing 8-for-28 from beyond the arc, including a disappointing 2-for-11 in the second half.
Upcoming Challenges
Michigan State will face a tougher test in their next exhibition game against the University of Connecticut on October 28, 2025. This matchup is expected to provide further insights into the team's readiness for the regular season, which begins on November 3 against Colgate.
Official Statements & Responses
Izzo remarked on the importance of the exhibition games for assessing the new roster dynamics, stating, "We've been competing against each other all summer, so just being able to finally play with each other is great." He also highlighted the need for players to step up defensively, particularly at the shooting guard position, where competition remains tight between Kur Teng and Trey Fort.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the victory, players like Coen Carr and Jaxon Kohler echoed Izzo's sentiments regarding the team's defensive performance. Carr admitted, "I feel like our defense was subpar," while Kohler emphasized the need to take pride in rebounding, stating, "They beat us fair and square on the boards."
What's Next
The Spartans will continue to refine their strategies and player rotations as they prepare for the upcoming season. The exhibition against UConn will be crucial for building team chemistry and addressing the defensive issues highlighted during the game against Bowling Green.
