3rd-seeded Michigan State powers past Valparaiso 65-54 with Nix scoring 23 points

Published January 13, 2015

Derrick Nix had 23 points and a career-high 15 rebounds to help power third-seeded Michigan State past 14th-seeded Valparaiso 65-54 on Thursday.

The Spartans went on a 26-5 run in the first half to take control.

Michigan State (26-8) will play the winner of the Memphis-St. Mary's game on Saturday when Spartans coach Tom Izzo will be shooting for a spot in the round of 16 for the fifth time in six years.

The Crusaders (26-8) were no match for Michigan State in their first NCAA tournament in nine years, just as they weren't as a first-round loser in 2000 to the eventual champion Spartans.

Valpo had enough size to match up, but didn't have enough strength.

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URL

https://www.foxnews.com/sports/3rd-seeded-michigan-state-powers-past-valparaiso-65-54-with-nix-scoring-23-points