Marcus Bingham Jr.: Michigan State 'proud, but mad' following loss to Duke

Michigan State was bounced out of the NCAA Tournament on Sunday, losing to 2-seed Duke with a trip to the Sweet 16 on the line.

In another classic battle between Tom Izzo and Mike Krzyzewski, the two sides exchanged big blows and scoring runs throughout. It was the Blue Devils in the second half that opened up a 9-point lead over the Spartans.

Then, Michigan State found its groove on both ends of the floor. The Spartans battled back and built a 70-65 lead behind a 9-0 run.

Unfortunately, the Blue Devils saved their best work for the final 5 minutes of the game. Some clutch buckets and big defensive stands allowed Duke to hold on for the win and to prolong Coach K’s career.

After the loss, Marcus Bingham Jr. said it was a tough one to swallow. He admitted feeling proud in the fight Michigan State showed but was also angry to see the NCAA Tournament come to an end so soon.

Marcus Bingham: “You want to be proud, but mad we’re not playing another night. … We fought. Just some situations, we didn’t pull through. Soemthing for the team next year to learn from.”

— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) March 21, 2022

Izzo echoed a similar sentiment, admitting he was proud of his team at the season’s end this time around as opposed to last season:

Tom Izzo and MSU players at podium now. Izzo says, “We’ve been through a lot….Last year, I was mad at my team at the end. THis time, I’m proud of my team.” Says Duke deserves credit. “Instead of cracking…their little homecourt got them going.”

— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) March 21, 2022