They’re No. 1 no more.
The Michigan State Spartans dropped the Champions Classic at Madison Square Garden on Tuesday night to the Kentucky Wildcats, falling 69-62.
😤 @KentuckyMBB takes down the No. 1 team in the nation! pic.twitter.com/Xpd6yvinTa
— FOX College Hoops (@CBBonFOX) November 6, 2019
Michigan State had been ranked first overall in the nation coming into the contest, with the Wildcats right behind them at No. 2.
Kentucky freshman Tyrese Maxey (who had been recruited by the Spartans) led the way for the Wildcats with 26 points, including a deep 3-point shot that increased their lead to 65-60 with time winding down in regulation.
Michigan State’s Kyle Ahrens wasn’t able close the gap with a 3-point shot afterwards, and then the Wildcats hit their subsequent free throws to seal the victory.
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Cassius Winston (5-for-12 on FGs, 1-for-7 from beyond the arc) was the only Spartan to hit double figures, finishing with 21 points. Aaron Henry scored nine points, while Xavier Tillman finished with seven.
Neither team had their best night shooting-wise; the Wildcats shot 38% while the Spartans shot 40%.
The Spartans return home to Breslin Center to battle Binghamton on Sunday.