The Bowling Green Falcons lost to the Michigan State Spartans 86-72 on Saturday in East Lansing, Michigan.
The Falcons jumped out to an early lead against the Spartans after not missing a single shot through the first 4 minutes, 24 seconds of the first half. Falcons standout Marcus Johnson had the hot hand early, knocking down a 3 and recording seven points before the first media timeout.
Through the first 10 minutes of the game, Tre Holloman led the way for the Spartans with nine points while shooting 4 for 4 from the field. Michigan State trailed at the midway point of the first half.
The game was tightly contested as both teams continued to trade baskets. The score was tied at 43-all going into halftime.
Bowling Green had the advantage for most of the first half but got in foul trouble early, allowing the Spartans to come back and tie the game. The Falcons lead 40-28 at one point in the first half, but with all the fouls, the Spartans shot 9 for 12 from the free-throw line to claw their way back to tie the game.
The close contest saw Bowling Green jumping to a quick advantage to begin the second half. Javontae Campbell reached double digits while the Falcons took a six-point lead.
The Spartans could not find an answer for Johnson, as he had 19 points before the halfway point of the second half.
The Falcons continued to fall into foul trouble, allowing the Spartans to stay in the game. With five minutes left in the half, the Spartans made 21 free throws to Bowling Green’s 12.
The Spartans began to pull away late in the second half. They had seven players tally at least 10 points. Jaden Akins led the way for Michigan State, recording 13 points and 12 rebounds for a double-double.
Johnson paced Bowling Green with 23 points. Campbell and Youssef Khayat also finished in double figures, scoring 14 and 13 points, respectively.
The Falcons drop to 1-3 on the season and continue the season against Niagara University on Tuesday.
