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Michigan State Stages Comeback, Defeats Rutgers in Overtime

1/28/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Michigan State defeated Rutgers 88-79 in overtime on January 27, 2026, after a 12-point deficit.
Divine Ugochukwu hit a last-second three-pointer to tie the game at 73 and force overtime.
Jeremy Fears Jr. led with a career-high 29 points and nine assists, 27 in the second half and overtime.
Victory lifts Michigan State to 19-2 overall and 9-1 in Big Ten, setting up a Friday showdown with No. 2 Michigan.

History

Historical Context

The 1979 NCAA Men's Basketball Championship marked a turning point in college basketball, with Michigan State defeating Indiana State 75-64 on March 26. This game featured future NBA stars Magic Johnson and Larry Bird, igniting a rivalry that would shape the sport. The championship attracted around 40 million viewers, significantly boosting interest in college basketball and paving the way for future tournaments.

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Story summary

Michigan State defeated Rutgers 88-79 in overtime on January 27, 2026, after a 12-point deficit.
Divine Ugochukwu hit a last-second three-pointer to tie the game at 73 and force overtime.
Jeremy Fears Jr. led with a career-high 29 points and nine assists, 27 in the second half and overtime.
Victory lifts Michigan State to 19-2 overall and 9-1 in Big Ten, setting up a Friday showdown with No. 2 Michigan.

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