Tre Holloman leads Michigan State to a thrilling overtime victory over North Carolina

In a thrilling overtime matchup during the Maui Invitational held in Lahaina, Hawaii, Michigan State University triumphed over No. 12 North Carolina with a score of 94-91 on November 27, 2024. The Spartans, led by Tre Holloman, who not only made his first start of the season but also delivered a career-high 19 points, showcased their offensive prowess throughout the game. Holloman's performance was particularly notable in the first half, where he scored 16 points and demonstrated accuracy with a perfect shooting record, hitting four three-pointers. The Spartans had additional support from teammates Jaden Akins and Coen Carr, who each contributed 14 points, while Jeremy Fears Jr. and Frankie Fidler added 13 points each, and Xavier Booker finished with 12 points. The game was tightly contested, with North Carolina managing to secure a brief lead late in the match. Drake Powell, Elliot Cadeau, and RJ Davis were key players for the Tar Heels, scoring 18, 17, and 16 points, respectively. The contest reached its dramatic conclusion when North Carolina's Seth Trimble hit a crucial three-pointer with just 5.2 seconds remaining in regulation, forcing the game into overtime. This moment exemplified the intense and competitive atmosphere of the tournament, as both teams fought hard for each point. As the overtime period progressed, key plays emerged that solidified Michigan State's advantage. After Cadeau's free throws gave North Carolina an 87-86 lead, Michigan State responded decisively. Holloman assisted Booker for a strong dunk, reclaiming the lead for the Spartans and setting the tone for the final moments of the match. The Spartans' offensive strategy proved effective, as they shot an impressive 54% from the field and exceptionally from the free-throw line, converting 24 out of 31 attempts. This performance significantly contributed to Michigan State's victory and highlighted their capability to score effectively in the paint, where they outscored North Carolina by a notable margin of 50 to 30. Looking ahead, both teams are set to continue their seasons in different matches, with Michigan State preparing for their Big Ten opener against Minnesota and North Carolina slated to host No. 9 Alabama. This victory not only marks a significant achievement for Michigan State at the Maui Invitational but also reflects their resilience and ability to perform under pressure. The matchup further illustrates the fierce competition within college basketball, setting the stage for upcoming games as both teams strive to improve their records and standings this season.