NEW YORK, NY- The Kansas Jayhawks and Michigan State Spartans kicked off their seasons at Madison Square Garden in the State Farm Champions Classic in New York City.

The Jayhawks came away with an 87-74 season-opening victory over the Spartans. Ochai Agbaji was the game's high-scorer with 29 points as the Jayhawks start the season with a big win.

Ogbaji's Career Day Has Jayhawks Rolling on Opening Night

Kansas got off to a quick start, building a seven-point lead by halftime. Disrupting the passing lanes and forcing turnovers was key as the Jayhawks ended the game with eight steals. The stifling Kansas defense was able to force 16 turnovers throughout the night.

The story of the game was the offensive display. Ochai Agbaji was able to put on a career day in his season debut, ending up with 29 points on 9 for 17 shooting. Remy Martin added another 15 points and David McCormack scored 10 points as the Jayhawks pulled off a big win.

Spartans Careless Turnovers Prove to Be Costly

The Spartans and head coach Tom Izzo had difficulties stopping Ochai Agbaji as he had his way against the Spartans' defense. To make matters worse, the Spartans had 16 turnovers in the game and shot just 9 for 16 (56.3%) from the free-throw line.

The Spartans controlled the glass, outrebounding the Jayhawks by 10. However, it was not enough to get them the win.

A.J. Hoggard was the team's leading scorer, coming off the bench to finish with 17 points. Julius Marble added another 13 points. Marcus Bingham Jr and Gabe Brown scored 10 points each as Tom Izzo's squad falls to the Jayhawks in their season opener.

Up Next for Both Teams

Kansas Jayhawks – VS TAR, 11/12, 8:00 PM ET

Michigan State Spartans – VS WMU, 11/12, 6:30 PM ET