Michigan State Spartans Overcome Ohio State in Big Ten Showdown

COLUMBUS, Ohio — The No. 15 Michigan State Spartans secured a hard-fought 69-62 victory over Ohio State on Friday night, marking their second consecutive road win in Big Ten play. The Spartans, who struggled on the road last season, have already shown significant improvement in 2024, improving to 12-2 overall and 3-0 in conference play.

Senior center Szymon Zapala led the charge with a season-high 15 points, including a dominant stretch in the second half that helped Michigan State build a 14-point lead. Zapala, a transfer from Longwood, shot 7-for-8 from the field and played a pivotal role in the Spartans’ interior dominance, outscoring Ohio State 38-22 in the paint.

Despite a 15-2 run by the Buckeyes that briefly gave them a one-point lead, Michigan State responded with composure. Senior captain Jaden Akins, who scored 14 points, emphasized the team’s growth from last season.