It was all Michigan State early and it was all Michigan State late, too, as the No. 17 Spartans dominated No. 12 Kentucky in an 83-66 statement win to open up this year's Champions Classic doubleheader.

Rick Pitino has Mark Pope’s back and believes Kentucky will eventually be a “great basketball team” despite a blowout loss to Michigan State Tuesday night in the Champions Classic. The No. 12 Wildcats were throttled by No. 17 Michigan State, 83-66, for their second loss of the young season. They also lost at in-state rival Louisville last week.