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The Michigan State Spartans and University of Connecticut Huskies battled it out in the Armed Forces Classic Nov. 10 on Ramstein with UConn upsetting MSU 66-62.
With only .3 seconds to go, UConn guard Shabazz Napier scored two free throws, pushing the final score to 66-62.
“Winning this game feels great,” said UConn head coach Kevin Ollie. “These guys worked tremendously hard for this. It’s time to build upon our success, enjoy this and get back to work.”
The Huskies gnawed away at the Spartans in front of 3,500 roaring military members and their families.
Cheers erupted from the fans as the players took the court to start the game.
Just a few minutes into the first half, UConn’s forward, DeAndre Daniels got the crowd off their feet as he slammed the ball through the hoop, increasing their lead by 11, to 17-6.
Huskies fans howled and bolted out of their seats with about eight minutes left in the first half, as Napier stole the ball and passed to guard Ryan Boatright as he rose above the rim and slammed one home, bringing the score to 32-18.
By halftime, UConn led by seven.
The experienced Spartans couldn’t be shaken as they crept back in the second half; however, the Huskies kept control, only losing the lead momentarily.
“We played great together,” said UConn guard R.J. Evans. “This win was a great way to start the season. It’s going to be a fun ride home.”
After the game, players stayed behind and signed autographs for anxiously awaiting fans.
“I am extremely excited to be here,” said Tech. Sgt. Duvall Roundtree, 86th Communications Squadron NCOIC of circuit actions. “It’s a great way for the Air Force to showcase our mission.”
Not only was this the first regular season basketball game played in Europe, but it was also the first in a series of games to be played as a tribute to military members around the world.
“(Visiting Germany) was an experience of a lifetime for our guys,” said Mike Garland, Michigan State assistant coach, who is in his 13th season. “It was something not every American gets to experience.”
The Armed Forces Classic was the NCAA basketball season opener.
