Junior forward Jaxon Kohler led Michigan State to a decisive victory over Niagara with a career-high 20 points and his second career double-double. The Spartans, now 2-0 overall, secured a 96-60 win at the Breslin Center on Thursday night.
Kohler achieved personal bests in both points (20) and rebounds (13), leading five players who scored in double figures. Freshman guard Jase Richardson contributed 12 points, senior forward Frankie Fidler added 11 points, junior guard Tre Holloman also had 11 points, and senior guard Jaden Akins finished with 10 points and six rebounds. Redshirt freshman guard Jeremy Fears Jr. provided seven points along with a game-high eight assists.
Michigan State held a lead of up to 13 points in the first half but allowed Niagara to close the gap with seven successful three-point shots. At halftime, the Spartans were ahead by seven points, leading 46-39. Early in the second half, Niagara reduced the deficit to three points following a dunk by Will Shortt.
Niagara initially took an early lead after hitting three consecutive three-pointers, two of which were made by Jahari Williamson. However, Michigan State responded with a significant run to regain control of the game. A layup from freshman guard Jase Richardson put them ahead at 13-12 midway through the first half.
The Spartans extended their advantage further with contributions from sophomore forward Xavier Booker and redshirt freshman Jeremy Fears Jr., taking their largest lead of the first half at 34-21 after a three-pointer from junior guard Tre Holloman.
Despite Niagara’s efforts to close the gap once more with a run that brought them within five points, Michigan State maintained their momentum throughout the game.
Looking ahead, Michigan State will travel to Atlanta for their next matchup against No. 1 Kansas in the Champions Classic on Tuesday, November 12th.
