MINNEAPOLIS - Michigan State broke open a close game by going to a smaller lineup that wore down the Robert Morris attack and sparked an 11-0 run over a three minute stretch to close the half and give MSU a 41-30 halftime lead en route to a 77-62 win to advance to round two of the NCAA Tournament.
After a cold start, Michigan State's Chris Allen scored 10 off the bench to lead MSU while Goran Suton grabbed 12 first half boards.
The Big Ten's defensive player of the year, Travis Walton held the Colonials Jeremy Chappell to just six first half points, but it cost him two early fouls. Chappell's effort led the Colonials in first half scoring.
Michigan State head coach Tom Izzo inserted Draymond Green for fellow freshman Delvon Roe and Day-Day responded with eight points and two rebounds. The lineup of Green, Suton, Walton, Kalin Lucas and Allen tired out the Colonials five and led to MSU's halftime advantage.
The Spartans extended their run to a 19-0 advantage before Robert Morris finally hit a free throw, but by that time, the rout was on. MSU's Goran Suton controlled the boards on both ends of the floor finishing with 11 points, 17 boards (four offensive) and two assists.
Raymar Morgan and Draymond Green's 16 points each led MSU. Kalin Lucas added 13 points and two assists. Chris Allen had ten and Korie Lucious had four assists.
Chappell led the Colonials with 11 points, three blocks and two assists.
Michigan State (27-6) now prepares to face the #10 seed Southern California (22-12) who upset Boston College 72-55.
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