Michigan State Basketball Preview 2021

Our Michigan State basketball preview 2021 - 22 observes that although the Spartans lose some scoring in front and see three players from the backcourt depart, they return a solid core. Plus, they welcome a premium transfer and promising freshman. Future Hall of Fame coach Tom Izzo (643-254 Michigan State/Overall/26 years) acknowledges that he needs more offense and better defense. Last season, the Michigan State Spartans (17-14 Overall, 9-11 Big Ten) tied for eighth in the conference. In the 2019 NCAA Tournament, this team went to the Final Four. In the next one, which was played in 2021, the Spartans were eliminated in the First Four. Thus, Izzo has made some adjustments in the hope that this team will score more and defend better.

Spartans Frontcourt

Five big men return to the paint, including senior forward Marcus Bingham Jr. To prep for what should be a breakthrough season, Bingham has bulked up, developed his strength, and refined his shot. A 50 percent field goal shooter, he is deadly inside. Our Michigan State basketball preview 2021 - 22 anticipates that Julius Marble II and Mady Sissoko will command the paint, utilizing their strength and big bodies. Both hit twos at the rate of 57-plus percent. Stretch 4 players Joey Hauser and Malik Hall have revealed flashes of high-end talent.

Michigan State Basketball Preview – Backcourt

Northeastern transfer Tyson Walker (18.8 PPG, 4.8 APG, 2.4 SPG) is a fine two-way player. The Colonial Athletic Association Defensive Player of the Year will offer top-notch D skills. At the other end of the court, Walker is a 37 percent three-point shooter. Skilled, quick, and possessing excellent court vision, Walker should be able to run the offense and transition effortlessly. On the wing, Gabe Brown can score quickly and in bunches. He has explosive energy and can hit from virtually anywhere. Last season as a freshman combo guard A.J. Hoggard struggled. But he has potential and could contribute this season. Three quality freshmen, including McDonald’s All-American Max Christie, will play key roles.

Michigan State Basketball Preview 2021 – Final Word

Izzo has solid starters, premium players in front and back, and a fine group of incoming guards. Our Michigan State basketball preview 2021 - 22 sees the Wolverines as being competitive enough to be a dangerous dark horse. That is, if Walker can command the court as expected, scorers and defenders step up, and the Wolverines stay in the game from start to finish. With those issues from last season addressed, this team will be a winner.

Big Ten - Michigan State Rankings & Projections 2021

  • AP Top 25 Preseason Poll Ranking: None

  • NCAA Men's Basketball NET Ranking: 76

  • Big Ten Finish: 6

  • Postseason Tournament: NCAA Round of 32

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Michigan Basketball Preview 2021