Michigan State showcased their defensive prowess at Breslin Center, limiting UCLA's high-powered offense and forcing the Bruins into difficult shots. The Spartans built a substantial lead with contributions from multiple players, including Jaxon Kohler's versatile scoring and Jeremy Fears' three-point accuracy.
The Bruins, who entered as the conference's top three-point shooting team, struggled to find rhythm from beyond the arc. Michigan State's defense clamped down, holding UCLA scoreless for over eight minutes during one stretch. Jordan Scott also contributed with hot three-point shooting, helping the Spartans extend their lead to 36-14 at halftime.