NEW YORK — In an impressive showing at Madison Square Garden, freshman guard Jase Richardson shined with a career-high of 20 points, leading the No. 8 ranked Michigan State Spartans to their 12th consecutive win by defeating Rutgers 81-74 on Saturday.

Coen Carr also made a notable contribution with 14 points, shooting a perfect 5-of-5 from the field, along with securing eight rebounds. The Spartans, boasting a record of 17-2 and dominating the Big Ten with an 8-0 mark, are enjoying their longest winning streak since they achieved a 13-game run during the 2018-19 season, a year when they reached the Final Four under legendary coach Tom Izzo.

For Rutgers, Jordan Derkack was the standout performer, recording a season-high of 26 points while coming off the bench. The game was held before a lively audience of 17,480, close to 38 miles from the Rutgers campus. Ace Bailey contributed 18 points despite shooting 4-of-17 and added nine rebounds.

Notably, Rutgers star Dylan Harper made his first bench appearance of the season due to a sprained ankle, finishing with six points in just 13 minutes of play. Harper has been a vital player for Rutgers, averaging 19.3 points prior to his injury sustained during a recent matchup against Penn State.

**Noteworthy Aspects**

Michigan State’s depth proved to be a significant advantage, with Carr and Richardson, the son of former Spartan great Jason Richardson, bringing energy from a bench that surpassed Rutgers’ reserves in scoring, 50-34. In contrast, Rutgers has been struggling, faced with injuries to key players, including their two promising freshmen who were initially ranked in the AP Top 25 at the season’s start.

**Game Highlights**

Carr electrified the crowd with several standout dunks, including one that helped the Spartans secure a commanding 58-46 advantage with just over eight minutes remaining in the game.

**Statistical Insights**

Michigan State remains undefeated at 12-0 since Tre Holloman joined the starting lineup. The Spartans consistently outperformed Rutgers, limiting them to just 34% shooting and maintaining a lead for over 33 minutes during the match.

**Looking Ahead**

Michigan State will face Minnesota at home on Tuesday, coming off a successful 90-72 win in their earlier encounter this season back on Dec. 4. Meanwhile, Rutgers will travel to take on Northwestern on Wednesday.