How No. 14 Michigan State extended No. 13 Purdue's losing streak

Michigan State shot 58.3% for the game with 42 of its 75 points coming in the paint. Along with 19 points off 12 Purdue turnovers, the Spartans took full advantage in transition and had their way under the basket.

This transition slam from freshman Jase Richardson — two of his 12 points in the game — put Michigan State up 35-31 and got it off to an emphatic start to begin the second half.

This steal and one-handed jam from senior Frankie Fidler gave Michigan State a 50-39 advantage with under 14 minutes to play and brought the Spartans bench to their feet.

This lob to sophomore Coen Carr under the basket put the game out of reach, 72-61, with 35.8 seconds remaining and capped a dominant performance in the paint for Michigan State.

The balance was on full display for the Spartans with six players scoring at least nine points. After suffering three losses in a four-game stretch, Michigan State has responded with back-to-back wins as it continues to be a force under the basket. With the Wolverines looming on Friday to kick off a difficult stretch to end the regular season, the Spartans must continue to take advantage of fastbreak chances and flex their muscle in the paint if they are going to finish strong.

While Michigan State (21-5, 12-3 Big Ten) is within striking distance of in-state rival Michigan for the Big Ten lead, the same cannot be said for Purdue. The Boilermakers (19-8, 11-5 Big Ten) have dropped three in a row and have allowed over 50% shooting in their last two games. If Purdue cannot get more stops and limit transition buckets, it could have a quick exit from the NCAA Tournament.