Atlanta - The 2024 State Farm Champions Classic in Atlanta delivered two exhilarating games between some of college basketball’s elite programs, showcasing top talent and thrilling finishes.
Kansas vs. Michigan State Recap
Kansas secured a hard-fought 77-69 victory over Michigan State, with star center Hunter Dickinson shining on both ends of the court. Dickinson scored 28 points on 13-of-21 shooting, grabbed 12 rebounds, and played a key defensive role, tallying three steals and a block. Kansas struggled with their shooting early on, missing 15 consecutive field goals, but regained momentum with a pivotal 14-2 run, turning an 18-16 deficit into a 30-24 lead. Dajuan Harris Jr. provided crucial stability in the final minutes, converting an and-one fast-break layup that stretched Kansas’s lead to nine points with 4:25 left in the game. This win was a historic one for head coach Bill Self, who became the winningest coach in Kansas history, surpassing Phog Allen's record with his 591st victory.
Michigan State fought valiantly, with Jaxon Kohler’s three-pointer tying the game at 52 midway through the second half, but ultimately, they struggled with efficiency from the field shooting 34.8% and from the three-point line, shooting 3 of 24 for 12.5%. Frankie Fidler led Michigan State with 15 points, but the Spartans’ poor shooting proved to be their downfall.
Kentucky vs. Duke Recap
In the second matchup, No. 19 Kentucky pulled off a statement win over No. 6 Duke, finishing 77-72 in a game that came down to the final possessions. Kentucky’s Otega Oweh was clutch in the closing moments, hitting four free throws in the final 10 seconds and securing a critical offensive rebound to seal the victory. Freshman Cooper Flagg led Duke with 26 points and 12 rebound, but he had two costly turnovers in the final 26.5 seconds that ultimately swung the game in Kentucky’s favor. With the score tied at 72, Flagg’s turnover after slipping in the corner allowed Kentucky to take possession, with Oweh stepping up to convert his free throws.
Under new head coach Mark Pope, a former Kentucky player, the Wildcats displayed remarkable balance with nine players scoring, including Andrew Carr, who led the team with 17 points. Kentucky also demonstrated strong perimeter shooting, making 10 of 25 from three-point range. Pope’s first major win with Kentucky set the stage for a promising season, as his team showed composure, maturity and depth in a close game.
These exciting games highlighted Kansas and Kentucky as formidable contenders, while Michigan State and Duke showed promise but left room for improvement as they navigate the season. The Champions Classic once again delivered on its reputation for high-stakes matchups and unforgettable moments.
Until next time...
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