Lansing Sun

Senior guard Jaden Akins matched his career-high with 23 points as Michigan State secured a victory over Monmouth, 81-57, in their season opener at the Breslin Center. Akins contributed significantly in the second half, scoring 15 of his total points. He successfully made 8-of-12 shots from the field and converted 6-of-7 free throws. Additionally, he led the team with nine rebounds, distributed five assists, and recorded two blocks and two steals.

Freshman guard Jase Richardson added 10 points and four assists coming off the bench. Senior center Szymon Zapala contributed nine points, eight rebounds, and three blocks to the team's effort.

Michigan State initially led by 15 points twice during the first half and entered halftime with an 11-point advantage at 38-27. Monmouth narrowed the gap early in the second half with Abdi Bashir Jr.'s jumper bringing them within six points at 38-32. However, Akins responded by scoring six consecutive points for Michigan State, extending their lead to 46-34.

Bashir Jr. managed to cut Michigan State's lead back to single digits briefly before Akins completed a three-point play followed by junior center Carson Cooper's free throws that pushed their lead back to 14 points at 51-37.

The game began with Fears assisting Akins for an alley-oop dunk which helped Michigan State take an early lead of 9-0. The Spartans extended this advantage to a commanding 17-2 following a layup from junior forward Jaxon Kohler. Despite a slowdown towards the end of the first half where they only managed two field goals in over four minutes, they maintained a lead going into halftime.

Looking ahead, Michigan State will host Niagara on Thursday, November 7th at the Breslin Center. The game is scheduled for an 8 p.m. start and will be broadcast live on BTN with Kevin Kugler and Shon Morris providing commentary.