Michigan State won their first regular season game of the 2013 season 98-56 against McNeese State University.

The Spartans got off to a slow start in the first half with McNeese St. briefly leading in the first four minutes of the half. Michigan State’s offense started working when the team started scoring on transition. They scored 40 fast break points in the game.

Scoring came early from Denzel Valentine, who ended up with 12 points and five rebounds on the night.

Sophomore guard Gary Harris led all scorers with 20 points and picked up 10 rebounds for his first double double of the season. Adreian Payne and Branden Dawson also recorded double doubles for the Spartans. Payne had 10 points and 10 rebounds, and Dawson had 12 points and 12 rebounds.

Though he did not play the first half, true freshman guard Alvin Ellis III saw playing time in the second half, which means he will not use his red shirt.

“It was something we talked to Alvin about,” Izzo said. “It’s always up to the player and I think he wanted to do it.”

Izzo said he is not sure as to how much playing time Ellis III will get, but believes that he will help the team. Ellis III had six points in seven minutes of playing time.

Michigan State’s next game is Nov. 12 against the Kentucky Wildcats, a matchup between the No. 1 and No. 2 teams in the nation.

Andrew Hayes is the host of Impact Izzone for Impact Sports.

Photo: Michigan State Athletics