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Tom Izzo discusses Michigan State’s win vs. Minnesota to open B1G play
By Paul Harvey
Published:
After a lackluster performance during the 2020-21 season, Michigan State basketball is trying to get back to its winning ways. And save for losses to Kansas and Baylor, the Spartans look much better to begin this season.
The Spartans have already logged wins over Butler, UConn, Loyola Chicago, and Louisville in non-conference play. Now, it’s time for some early-season conference matchups in B1G play.
Wednesday night, it was the first game of conference play with a road trip vs. Minnesota. Led by a trio of 15-point performances, the Spartans knocked off the Gophers 75-67.
Offensively, the Spartans were led by Malik Hall, Gabe Brown, and Tyson Walker with 15 points apiece. Joey Hauser added 10 points as Michigan State shot 48.1% from the field while limiting Minnesota to 39.7% shooting.
After the game, head coach Tom Izzo discussed the win and the opening of B1G play. Here’s a glimpse at what Izzo had to say:
Izzo: “Tyson Walker is getting better each and every game, making plays. Other than the four turnovers, I thought he had a hell of a game.”
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) December 9, 2021
Izzo said MSU “made some mistakes you shouldn’t make” in the final 7-8 minutes of the game. Liked the start of the second half and early portion of the game.
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) December 9, 2021
Izzo on Hauser: “This was Joey’s best all-around game, and I’m really happy for him. He’s been through hell, but he’s bouncing back.”
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) December 9, 2021
Izzo said he felt like Jaden Akins might have got a piece of the ball on his half-court chase-down in the second half. “That was a hell of a play. … Those are game-changing. They’re deflating from their standpoint and uplifiting from ours.”
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) December 9, 2021
Next up for Michigan State is a Saturday afternoon visit from Penn State. That game is slated for 2 pm EST on BTN.
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.