Tom Izzo labels UConn 'a hell of a team' following MSU's upset win
Michigan State continued its winning streak since the season-opening loss to Kansas, upsetting No. 22 UConn in the Bahamas.
After a thrilling last-second win vs. Loyola Chicago on Wednesday, the Spartans used a late surge to down the Huskies. With under 2 minutes to play, Michigan State trailed 60-55 and appeared to be heading toward a loss.
However, over the last 1:40, Michigan State scored the last 9 points. That included 4 from Julius Marble as the Spartans came back for the 64-60 upset. It was the first defeat of the season for UConn.
Offensively, Michigan State was led by Gabe Brown’s 16-point, 10-rebound double-double. Brown also sank 2-for-3 3-pointers as the Spartans went 6-for-13 from deep as a team. That proved to be one of the difference-makers as the Huskies were held to 2-for-16 from 3-point range.
In addition to scoring 4 late points, Marble had 15 off the bench to provide a spark in the win.
After the game, head coach Tom Izzo discussed the win, praising UConn’s length and defensive talent that proved to be a challenge:
Izzo: “We just beat a hell of a team.”
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) November 25, 2021
Izzo on 12 turnovers: “12 for us is like 2 for most teams.” Calls it “a big win.”
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) November 25, 2021
Adds that “12 against that team isn’t like 20 against some others” with UConn’s length and defense. https://t.co/u9LyQNOILn
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) November 25, 2021
Izzo credits PG Walker and Hoggard, who had just three turnovers between them. “I’ve ridden them like Seattle Slew the past weeks. They stepped up today”
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) November 25, 2021