“Exhibition games are about finding out who you can trust when the lights come on.”

Tom Izzo said that in 2019 and it holds just as true today as it did six years ago. The Michigan State Spartans basketball team finally returned to the court last night. It may have been just an exhibition matchup against Bowling Green, but seeing the boys back in action looked gorgeous.

Tom Izzo rolled out a starting five that many expect to see throughout the season:

• Jeremy Fears Jr. (G)
• Kur Teng (G)
• Jaxon Kohler (F)
• Coen Carr (F)
• Carson Cooper (C)

The Spartans enter the 2025–26 season with lofty expectations following last year’s 30-win campaign and Big Ten regular-season title. To reach those same heights, however, they’ll need significant improvement from returning players and instant impact from newcomers—especially after losing 63% of last year’s scoring.

Carr Sets the Tone Early

It didn’t take long for Coen Carr to remind fans what he can do above the rim. After Bowling Green grabbed an early 3–0 lead, Carr electrified the Breslin Center with an alley-oop slam for the Spartans’ first basket. Later in the half, he added another emphatic dunk that set the tone for what could be a breakout year.

Michigan State traded baskets with the Falcons early, but the offense found its rhythm as the half went on. Behind strong performances from Carr, Kohler, and Fears Jr., the Spartans entered halftime with a 48–39 lead.

Battling Through the Second Half

Bowling Green came out of the locker room with renewed energy, led by Sam Towns, who kept the Falcons within striking distance. They managed to tie the game midway through the second half before the Spartans responded with composure and regained control.

Michigan State outscored Bowling Green 18–9 over the final ten minutes, pulling away for a 75–66 win. Carr led all scorers with 17 points, while Kohler added 15. Fears nearly posted a double-double, finishing with 12 points and nine assists.

A Solid Start

It was the perfect tune-up game for the Spartans—high-flying dunks, tough defense, and signs of chemistry among the new lineup. There’s plenty of work to do before the regular season tips off, but with Carr, Kohler, and Fears Jr. leading the charge, Michigan State looks ready to defend its Big Ten crown.

The Spartans’ next exhibition will be on Tuesday, October 28, against the UConn Huskies in Connecticut. The matchup will not count toward either team’s official record, with a return exhibition scheduled for East Lansing next season.