Jeremy Fears Jr. Makes History with 17 Assists in MSU's Blowout Win

A Historic Performance by Jeremy Fears Jr.

In a dazzling display of skill and teamwork, Michigan State University's Jeremy Fears Jr. set the Breslin Center ablaze as he led the Spartans to a resounding 91-48 victory over the Maryland Terrapins on January 24, 2026. Fears not only shined with his scoring, netting 17 points, but he also orchestrated the game with a staggering 17 assists, tying a 54-year-old record for the second-most assists in a single game in MSU history. This performance puts him in illustrious company alongside Gary Ganakas and just one assist shy of matching the legendary Mateen Cleaves, who set the school record at 20 assists against Michigan back in 2000.

The Game's Turning Point

The Spartans wasted no time establishing dominance, roaring out to a 24-4 lead with a blistering 18-0 run in the first half, showcasing their extensive depth and unselfish play. Fears' ability to find open teammates was pivotal throughout the game, as he deftly navigated the Maryland defense, setting up his teammates for easy buckets. As Fears juggled the roles of shooter and facilitator, his performance encapsulated Tom Izzo's ethos of accountability and physical toughness—a true hallmark of MSU basketball.

The Impact of Team Cohesion

What stood out most was the synergy among the players. Alongside Fears, teammates like Carson Cooper and Coen Carr contributed significantly, scoring 14 points each, while the overall defense limited Maryland to a meager 33% shooting. This cohesiveness on both ends is a testament to Izzo's rigorous training protocols and the players' commitment to each other, emphasizing that basketball is indeed a team sport.

Fears' Path to Greatness

This breakthrough comes at a moment when Fears is evolving into a more well-rounded player in his sophomore year. After missing a significant portion of his freshman season due to injury, the point guard has returned stronger, averaging a remarkable 8.8 assists per game—currently leading the nation. His focus on balancing scoring with playmaking reflects a maturity that could very well position him as a future leader in the college basketball landscape.

Defensive Excellence: Spartans' Strength

On the defensive front, Michigan State entered the game ranked first nationally, stifling Maryland's offensive efforts and forcing 11 turnovers while dominating in the paint with a 38-16 scoring margin. This focused defensive effort, combined with their offensive explosiveness, painted a picture of a formidable contender in the Big Ten. As the Spartans gear up for their upcoming matchup against Rutgers, their strategy will undoubtedly revolve around continuing this dual-threat success.

Looking Ahead: The Road to Rutgers

The Spartans will next face Rutgers in a much-anticipated game, marking their first visit to Piscataway since 2022. As Fears and the team look to continue their winning streak, fans are left eagerly anticipating whether this remarkable rhythm can be sustained against a team in desperate need of a turnaround. With each game, Fears inches closer to becoming one of the greats in Michigan State history, and as he grows, so too does the excitement surrounding this season.

Conclusion: Why This Performance Matters

Fears' dazzling performance symbolizes not only his individual talent but also the depth and resilience of the Michigan State program. With this latest victory, the Spartans are cementing their status as a contender in the Big Ten. Basketball enthusiasts and fans of sports history alike would do well to keep an eye on Fears and his teammates as they strive for greatness this season. Are you ready to see what becomes of this talented roster?