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NCAA Basketball: Duke, Purdue, Wisconsin rise in latest top 25 power rankings

Jan 18, 2025; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard Koby Brea (4) shoots the ball over Alabama Crimson Tide forward Mouhamed Dioubate (10) during the second half at Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-Imagn Images
Jan 18, 2025; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard Koby Brea (4) shoots the ball over Alabama Crimson Tide forward Mouhamed Dioubate (10) during the second half at Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-Imagn Images | Jordan Prather-Imagn Images
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9. Michigan State (15-2)

Winning is what matters in this sport and this year’s edition of the Spartans just keep putting those wins together. An overtime win in Maui over North Carolina seemed to spark something for a Michigan State team that hasn’t lost since returning to the mainland in late November and they kept that streak going into this week.

Continuing to inspire in Big Ten play, the Spartans grabbed another road win last Sunday, prevailing 78-68 over Northwestern. The Spartans made 50% of their field goals in a balanced effort, getting 14 points from Jaden Akins to lead the charge. On Wednesday, Michigan State won 90-85 against Penn State, surviving a mediocre defensive performance to knock off the Nittany Lions. Frankie Fidler had 18 points and 7 rebounds off the bench.

Even when they’re not perfect, Michigan State still finds ways to win games and now sit 6-0 through the first few weeks of Big Ten play. Winners of ten straight games, the Spartans have hit another stride with their offense in recent weeks, though it’ll be important to get better effort from the defense in the future. That future comes fast as this team hosts Illinois in a major showdown on Sunday afternoon.