The early 6 p.m. tip prevented the RAC from being full due to brutal traffic, but it didn’t prevent a fast start from Rutgers against the mighty Spartans of Michigan State. That set the tone for a Big Ten worthy back and forth battle, but ultimately talent won out. Rutgers wore down in the second half and the stars of MSU, Cassius Winston and Nick Ward, dominated for stretches, leading to a 78-67 Michigan State victory.
Rutgers came out on fire, as Geo Baker made two shots from behind the arc and Peter Kiss made one, causing the RAC to stir early and the home team led 13-8 at the first media timeout.