COL BKB: Michigan State 87, Oklahoma 76

NEW YORK, Nov. 24 (UPI) -- Keith Appling struck for 27 points Saturday but No. 1 Michigan State had to work to hold off Oklahoma 87-76 and claim the Coaches vs. Cancer Classic title.

Gary Harris added 21 points for the Spartans (6-0), who led by only four points early in the second half before finally pulling away down the stretch.

Branden Dawson provided some key offensive punch with 18 points.

The Sooners (4-1) came close but fell at the end despite 32 points from Cameron Clark.

Isaiah Cousins had 15 points for OSU.