Tarris Reed Jr. and Alex Karaban delivered when it mattered most, combining scoring punch with late-game composure to lift second-seeded UConn past third-seeded Michigan State, 67-63, on Friday night in the Sweet 16.
Reed led UConn with 20 points, while Karaban added 17 in a tightly contested matchup that stayed within reach down the stretch. With the margin slim in the final minute, both players stepped to the free-throw line and converted pressure-packed attempts that helped the Huskies maintain their edge.
Late poise makes the difference
Michigan State pushed UConn deep into the closing moments, but UConn’s ability to execute at the stripe proved decisive. Reed and Karaban’s late free throws helped prevent a late swing and allowed the Huskies to close out the four-point victory.
The win sends UConn through the Sweet 16, while Michigan State’s run ends after a hard-fought performance against a higher seed in a game decided by a handful of late possessions.