Tuesday, April 16, 2024

Sports | Men's Basketball

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Spartans lacking statement win, identity

During MSU’s run of six Final Fours in the last 12 years, anyone who knows anything about basketball has learned to never doubt a Tom Izzo-led basketball team in November or December. But after watching the No. 12 Spartans lose to No. 18 Texas, 67-55, Wednesday night at Breslin Center, it’s becoming harder and harder to believe in this MSU basketball team’s chances at a long run in March.

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Spartans survive scare against Oakland, 77-76

Auburn Hills, Mich. – The No. 7 MSU men’s basketball team may have been favored against in-state foe Oakland, but the Spartans found themselves in a 40-minute dogfight against the defending Summit League champion Golden Grizzlies, winning, 77-76, at the Palace of Auburn Hills.

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Schedule already affecting 'tired' Spartans

MSU men’s basketball head coach Tom Izzo long has used the anyone, any place, any time thought process when putting together his team’s schedule. But after Saturday’s 74-39 win against Bowling Green at Breslin Center, Izzo said he is a little concerned with how the constant traveling to play big games is affecting his players.

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Spartans looking to cut down on turnovers

Wednesday night’s game against Duke, which many believe could be a preview of the national championship game, saw MSU turn the ball over 20 times. If there’s one thing the Spartans are looking to improve on when Bowling Green comes to town Saturday, it’s taking better care of the ball.

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Spartans hold on, defeat Gamecocks, 82-73

With a later-than-usual 10 p.m. tip-off as a part of ESPN’s Tip-Off Marathon, the MSU men’s basketball team didn’t perform like the No. 2 team in the country, committing 19 turnovers and shooting 50 percent from the free-throw line in an 82-73 victory over South Carolina on Tuesday night at Breslin Center.

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Thornton finds role in crowded backcourt

Austin Thornton came to MSU four years ago as a lights-out shooter. But in the three years since his redshirt season, head coach Tom Izzo said Thornton had yet to put that jumper on display. On Friday, Thornton found his stroke, going 3-for-5 from the field and making all four of his free throw attempts.