Tom Izzo has emphasized the importance of defense throughout his coaching career at Michigan State basketball. This season, he wants his team to take their defensive efforts to the next level. Specifically, he plans to implement a full-court press defense with his current guards, a strategy he hasn’t used before.
The Spartans showcased this defensive adjustment in their recent exhibition games, particularly in their preseason loss to No. 10 Tennessee. They applied full-court pressure more frequently than in the past, and Izzo intends to continue using this strategy as they start their regular season.
The Spartans’ increased defensive pressure led to 20 turnovers by Tennessee, resulting in 19 points for Michigan State. This exhibition game showcased their potential for disrupting opponents with their athleticism and defensive mindset. In their previous exhibition, they also performed well defensively, forcing 17 turnovers and 11 steals against Hillsdale.
However, the Spartans also struggled with turnovers themselves, committing 17 in the game against Tennessee. They fell behind early but managed to rally back, thanks to their defensive efforts. Izzo acknowledged the effectiveness of their full-court press defense but recognized the need for improvement in half-court defense.
The Spartans’ guards, including Tyson Walker, Jeremy Fears Jr., Tre Holloman, and A.J. Hoggard, were instrumental in their defensive success. They displayed disruptive defense, causing turnovers and difficulty for the opposing team. This increase in steals would greatly benefit Michigan State, as they ranked poorly in steal statistics last season.
According to Walker, the team’s dedication to defense is commendable, with every player eager to contribute defensively. Their physical toughness and conditioning have impressed Tennessee coach Rick Barnes, who believes the full-court press defense could be a significant advantage for the Spartans as they pursue another national title.
Contact Chris Solari: [email protected]. Follow him @chrissolari.
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Laura Davis covers the world of basketball with precision. Her articles explore NBA and college basketball, offering game analysis, player profiles, and highlights. Laura’s passion for hoops is evident in her comprehensive basketball coverage.
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