The No. 3 seed Michigan State opened its NCAA Tournament run with a commanding 92-67 victory over No. 14 seed North Dakota State on Thursday in Buffalo, controlling the game from early on and never looking back.

After a brief back-and-forth start, the Spartans took over before the midway point of the first half, using an extended run to build a double-digit lead. Michigan State’s physical presence in the paint and efficient shooting quickly created separation, highlighted by an 18-2 surge that put the Bison on their heels.

Senior center Carson Cooper led the way with a dominant performance, finishing with 20 points and 10 rebounds for a double-double. He was one of four Spartans to score in double figures, as Coen Carr added 17 points, Cam Ward contributed 13 off the bench, and Jaxon Kohler chipped in 12 points and nine rebounds.

Point guard Jeremy Fears orchestrated the offense effectively, recording 11 assists while helping Michigan State generate consistent scoring opportunities. The Spartans finished with 26 assists on 33 made field goals, setting a program record for assists in an NCAA Tournament game.

Michigan State carried a 45-25 lead into halftime after shooting over 55 percent from the field, while North Dakota State struggled offensively, particularly from beyond the arc. The Spartans extended their lead to as many as 28 points early in the second half, effectively putting the game out of reach.

North Dakota State attempted multiple runs, including an 8-0 stretch in the second half, but Michigan State responded each time with timely scoring and defensive stops to maintain control.

The win also marked head coach Tom Izzo’s 60th career NCAA Tournament victory, tying him with John Calipari for fifth all-time.

Michigan State advances to face No. 6 seed Louisville in the second round on Saturday, with a spot in the Sweet 16 on the line.