No. 22 Michigan State falls 76-69 to No. 4 UConn in exhibition finale

Michigan State's basketball team struggled in their final exhibition game, losing 76-69 to No. 4 UConn, highlighting several issues ahead of their regular season opener against Colgate. Key concerns include poor free throw shooting, with Michigan State converting only 66% from the line and missing 15 free throws, which was a critical factor in the loss. The Spartans also suffered from slow starts, falling behind early and unable to close the gap despite improved second-half play. Offensively, the team lacks a clear go-to scorer, with no player consistently stepping up as Michigan State seeks offensive leadership. UConn, dealing with injuries to significant players, showcased promising performances from German freshman Eric Reibe, despite foul trouble among their frontcourt players. Michigan State had four players score in double digits, including Jeremy Fears Jr., Carson Cooper, Coen Carr, and Jaxon Kohler, with Cooper and Kohler recording double-doubles, but it was insufficient against the Huskies' dominant performance.