Walker, Hall help Michigan State fend off Maryland 63-54
Michigan State guard Tre Holloman (5) blocks a shot by Maryland guard Jahmir Young, center right, during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game, Saturday, Feb. 3, 2024, in East Lansing, Mich. Credit: AP/Al Goldis
EAST LANSING, Mich. — Tyson Walker and Malik Hall scored 19 points apiece and Michigan State pulled away late to beat Maryland 63-54 on Saturday night.
Walker made 8 of 16 shots with two 3-pointers for the Spartans (14-8, 6-5 Big Ten Conference). Hall made 5 of 9 attempts with a 3-pointer and 8 of 11 free throws, adding seven rebounds.
Jahmir Young had 31 points on 9-for-22 shooting to lead the Terrapins (13-9, 5-6). He was 4 of 12 from distance and 9 for 9 at the foul line. Donta Scott scored 11 of his 13 points in the first half.
Walker hit both of his 3-point attempts and scored 12 to lead Michigan State to a 31-27 advantage at halftime. Young had 12 points as just three players scored in the first half for Maryland.
Michigan State maintained its lead until Young hit a 3-pointer and scored five in a 7-0 run, putting the Terrapins on top 42-41 with 7:15 left to play. Hall followed with two free throws and a 3-pointer in a 7-2 spurt and the Spartans regained the lead and stayed in front.
Michigan State has won six in a row against Maryland. The Spartans have a 6-2 record at home in a series they lead 16-8.
Michigan State coach Tom Izzo notched the 700th victory of his career — all with the Spartans — last time out after an 81-62 romp over Michigan.
Maryland head coach Kevin Willard gives instructions during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game against Michigan State, Saturday, Feb. 3, 2024, in East Lansing, Mich. Credit: AP/Al Goldis
Michigan State travels to play Minnesota on Tuesday. Maryland returns home to play Rutgers on Tuesday.
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