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Spartans Win Twice At Fort Myers Tip-Off Tournament

PUBLISHED Nov 25, 2025, 4:21 PM ET

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Fort Myers, Fla. — Michigan State beat East Carolina 89-56 on Tuesday and defeated North Carolina 74-58 on Thursday in the Fort Myers Tip-Off, extending the Spartans' start to 7-0. Jaxon Kohler and Divine Ugochukwu scored 16 points each against East Carolina as Michigan State totaled 36 points in the paint and forced 24 turnovers. Jeremy Fears Jr. scored 19 and added seven assists in the win over North Carolina, while Carson Cooper and Jaxon Kohler contributed double-figure scoring and rebounds. Michigan State's bench and interior play provided decisive advantages in both contests. Based on 11 articles reviewed and research.

By Emily Rhodes | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Season start: Michigan State opened the season unbeaten leading into the Fort Myers Tip-Off.
Tuesday: Michigan State beat East Carolina 89-56; Kohler and Ugochukwu scored 16 each; team forced 24 turnovers.
Thursday: Michigan State defeated No. 16 North Carolina 74-58; Jeremy Fears Jr. scored 19 and had seven assists.
Statistical trends: Spartans showed interior scoring, bench contributions, and defensive pressure across both games.
Outcome: Michigan State improved to 7-0 and gained national attention for balanced offense and defensive efficiency.

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Who Benefited

Michigan State University’s men’s basketball program benefited through improved national standing, enhanced recruiting narratives, increased visibility for key players (Jeremy Fears Jr., Jaxon Kohler, Divine Ugochukwu, Carson Cooper), and positive momentum following consecutive decisive wins at the Fort Myers Tip-Off.

Who Impacted

North Carolina and East Carolina programs suffered single-game setbacks: UNC registered a season-low offensive performance and was out-rebounded for the first time, while East Carolina’s turnovers and interior defense weaknesses produced a lopsided loss and worsened their early-season record.

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