Michigan State beats Ohio State in late comeback

Michigan State (#5) vs. Ohio State (#3), 72-68

The Michigan State Spartans rode a late comeback in overtime to beat the Ohio State Buckeyes. Ohio State, which was unbeaten in Division I coming into the contest falls to 15-1, while Michigan state continues on a seven-game winning streak since losing to North Carolina.

The Spartans were led by Keith Appling’s game-high 20 points, six rebounds and seven assists. Appling came through for his team as he nailed a tiebreaking three-point shot with 29 seconds left in the extra period. Adreian Payne, a regular starter, came off the bench due to a right foot sprain and added 18 points of his own.

The Buckeyes came up dry from downtown, making only four of their eighteen attempts from deep. They also committed 19 turnovers for the game, something the Spartans were able to capitalize on en route to their recovery after squandering a 17-point advantage early in the game. Michigan State needed a 20-3 rally in the fourth quarter to force overtime.

The Buckeyes were led by Sam Thompson who finished with 18 points and Marc Loving who chipped in 10.