LANSING, Mich. — In an impressive display, Jaxon Kohler entered the game from the bench and achieved career milestones, scoring a remarkable 20 points and securing 13 rebounds. The Michigan State Spartans enjoyed a substantial 96-60 win against the Niagara Purple Eagles on Thursday evening, gearing up for their upcoming clash with the number one ranked Kansas team.

Michigan State improved their record to 2-0 and is set to face the Jayhawks next Tuesday at the Champions Classic event in Atlanta. Kohler showcased his skills by shooting 8-of-12, marking his second career double-double. He was supported by Jase Richardson, who contributed 12 points, while Tre Holloman and Frankie Fidler each scored 11 points. Additionally, Jaden Akins added 10 points to the final tally. The Spartans displayed impressive shooting at 52% and dominated on the boards, recording a 10-rebound advantage on the offensive end, outscoring Niagara 56-18 in the paint.

For the Purple Eagles, Olumide Adelodun led the scoring with 13 points, followed closely by Jahari Williamson with 12 points, and Jhaylon Martinez contributing 10 points. Niagara managed to shoot only 38% overall.

The second half started with Martinez knocking down a three-pointer, which narrowed Michigan State’s lead to 46-42. However, a cold streak of 1-for-9 shooting for Niagara allowed the Spartans to embark on an 11-0 scoring run, highlighted by five consecutive points from Fidler, increasing their advantage to 14 points. With eight minutes remaining, a three-pointer from Fidler expanded the lead to 24 points, and the Spartans seized control with a 16-point scoring burst, culminating in a 38-point lead.

Initially, Niagara took an early lead by connecting on three consecutive three-pointers, two of which were from Williamson. However, Michigan State reclaimed the lead with a basket by Richardson seven minutes into the contest. The Spartans built a 13-point lead during the first half, but a jump shot followed by a three-pointer from Adelodun allowed the Purple Eagles to close the half, trailing by just five points.