NEW YORK. (WILX) - No. 17 Michigan State men’s basketball leads No. 12 Kentucky 44-27 at halftime in the Champions Classic at Madison Square Garden in New York City. The 17-point halftime lead is tied for the largest in Champions Classic history.

The Spartans’ outside shooting woes to begin the season disappeared in the first half, as MSU shot 7-13 on three-pointers after not making more than six in its first four games.

Michigan State also dominated the glass in the first period, out-rebounding Kentucky 23-13.

Michigan State trailed 17-14 with 12 minutes remaining, but went on an 18-2 run over the next six minutes to take a 32-19 lead.

Jaxon Kohler leads MSU with 12 points.

The game is airing on ESPN.

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