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Tom Izzo offers up sarcastic big-man options following latest MSU struggles

Paul Harvey

By Paul Harvey

Published:

Tom Izzo needs to see more from his big men at Michigan State. That is clear after another loss for the Spartans, dropping the team to 4-5 overall.

In the 77-70 loss to Nebraska, Mady Sissoko did not register a shot attempt and Carson Cooper managed just 2 points in 12 minutes played. The Spartans also finished even in the rebounding margin with Nebraska.

Asked about his big-man production, Izzo quipped that a couple of seldom-used reserve guards might be his best options down low. He explained feeling “very disappointed” with the current play so far.

“The way I feel right now, Nick (Sanders) and Steven (Izzo) are our options,” cracked Izzo. “I was very disappointed in our play out there. I’m very disappointed… not a lot of options, but it’s just a shame.”

So far, Sissoko has appeared in every game and is averaging 4.4 points, 5.3 rebounds and 0.8 blocks. Carson Cooper is averaging 3.2 points and 5.3 rebounds, leaving the Spartans without a legitimate inside-out presence to this point.

As for 5-star forward Xavier Booker, he has appeared in 6 games but has averaged just 2.8 points and 1.8 rebounds and shooting 30% from the field.

Paul Harvey

Paul is a lifelong fan and student of all things college football. He has been covering college football since 2017 and the B1G since 2018.