Here's what Tom Izzo said following Michigan State's successful season opener
Michigan State moved to 1-0 on the season with a strong showing against Eastern Michigan. That win was headlined by Joshua Langford’s return to the court and a career-best performance by point guard Foster Loyer.
For Langford, he made a successful return to the hardwood with his first bucket in nearly two years. He would go on to post 10 points and looked aggressive all game long.
For Loyer, he earned the starting point guard spot for the season opener after an offseason battle with Rocket Watts. Loyer went off against Eastern Michigan, scoring a game-high 20 points with six made three-pointers. Both were also career-high numbers for Loyer.
After the win, head coach Tom Izzo discussed everything from the point guard battle heading into the game, to the impressive showing of Gabe Brown, to his own personal battle with COVID.
Here’s what he had to say:
MSU coach Tom Izzo said there were some “serious positives” but also some negatives like the 18 turnovers. “Very very very” impressed with Loyer but felt Henry was too unselfish even though he “acted like a true captain.”
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) November 26, 2020
Izzo said he felt Langford ans Hauser will have some up and down moments like they were tonight as they ease back into playing after their extended time off.
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) November 26, 2020
Izzo said he “takes my hat off” for EMU coach Rob Murphy for not canceling game with guys out.
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) November 26, 2020
Izzo says he feels pretty good after coaching the game less than a week after coming back from his own COVID battle.
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) November 26, 2020
Izzo sounds fatigued, his voice hoarse. He said it was "a little bit of a tough day" for him," a little bit more fatigued than usual."
— Graham Couch (@Graham_Couch) November 26, 2020
Tom Izzo says Loyer played really well but he liked the way Aaron Henry played, as well. Wants him to be more selfish
— Matt Charboneau (@mattcharboneau) November 26, 2020
Izzo says he’s seen this all summer and fall from Loyer “except for the last two weeks” with shooting struggles. Got him good shots tonight. Felt that helped MSU avoid struggling against EMU zone.
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) November 26, 2020
Izzo: "Rocket was a little frustrated but didn't play frustrated."
— Matt Charboneau (@mattcharboneau) November 26, 2020
Izzo on Gabe Brown and his instant offense: "I'm gonna try and make him the best sixth man in college basketball."
— Matt Charboneau (@mattcharboneau) November 26, 2020
Izzo said he was disappointed in Hauser’s five turnovers but liked seeing him respond in the second half.
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) November 26, 2020
Izzo in closing: “All in all, it was a night of basketball. And I think that’s what we all needed.”
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) November 26, 2020
The Spartans will be back in action Saturday evening against Notre Dame. That game is slated for an 8 pm EST tip on BTN.
