Michigan State’s Tyson Walker ecstatically celebrates his scoring achievement against Tennessee at the Breslin Center in East Lansing on Sunday, Oct. 29, 2023. Lansing State Journal columnist Graham Couch embarks on a semi-serious journey through Michigan State’s men’s basketball season, where he predicts the outcome of every game from the opener against James Madison to March Madness.
On Monday in East Lansing, Michigan State commences its season facing James Madison. Although James Madison may not be a well-known team, they possess the ability to challenge MSU. With several key players returning from last season’s 22-win team, James Madison has proven their competitiveness against formidable opponents like North Carolina and Virginia. Terrence Edwards, their star player, is a versatile wing who excels in scoring, shooting, and defending. While their size may not be their advantage, they make up for it with experience and solidity. The uncertainty lies in their point guard position, as they rely on two graduate transfers making their James Madison debuts against one of the top high-major backcourts in the nation. Prediction: MSU wins, 1-0.
On Thursday, Nov. 9, Southern Indiana visits East Lansing. If you’re unfamiliar with Southern Indiana’s basketball program, you might be considered a college basketball snob. Known for their success in Division II, Southern Indiana has recently transitioned to Division I. With several transfers on their roster, including standout players Yarin Hassan and Jordan Tillmon, they present a fast-paced, challenging opponent for MSU. Prediction: MSU wins, 2-0.
MSU faces Duke at the Champions Classic in Chicago on Nov. 14. The Champions Classic has historically been a platform for MSU to showcase their talent and dominance. This year, they face a loaded Duke team that boasts a mix of experienced players and highly-touted freshmen. Notably, Duke’s top veterans are sophomores who chose to return, and they will prove to be a test for MSU’s big men. This game presents an opportunity for MSU’s acclaimed backcourt to shine, with A.J. Hoggard making a statement with a triple-double. Prediction: MSU wins, 3-0.
Pierre Brooks II returns to Breslin Center with Butler on Nov. 17 for the Big Ten’s Gavitt Games competition with the Big East. Butler has undergone significant changes since their last season, and Brooks emerges as a standout player on this Friday night game. Both Brooks and his former roommate, Jaden Akins, showcase their long-range shooting skills, with Brooks hitting seven 3-pointers and Akins hitting eight. Prediction: MSU wins, 4-0.
On Nov. 19, MSU faces Alcorn State, a team that resembles a potential first-round NCAA tournament matchup if both teams perform well this season. Alcorn State has been successful in their conference, winning two straight SWAC regular season titles. However, they struggle to secure their conference tournament victory. Prediction: MSU wins, 5-0.
In Palm Springs, California, MSU plays Arizona at Acrisure Arena on Nov. 23. Owned by Lansing native and MSU mega-donor Greg Williams, this game takes place shortly after the Lions’ victory over the Packers. Arizona features North Carolina transfer Caleb Love and dominant big man Oumar Ballo. With Love’s exceptional shooting and Ballo’s imposing presence, MSU faces a challenging matchup on Thanksgiving. Prediction: MSU loses, 5-1.
Georgia Southern visits Breslin Center on Nov. 28. Led by coach Charlie Henry, a Canton native, Georgia Southern aims to play at a fast pace, focusing on layups and 3-pointers. MSU embraces this style of play, setting a school-record with 17 3-pointers and enjoying a 30-point victory. However, Coach Tom Izzo expresses concern about the team’s second-half rebounding performance. Prediction: MSU wins, 6-1.
Big Ten play begins on Dec. 5 as MSU hosts Wisconsin. The Badgers bring back a majority of their top scorers, including Steven Crowl, a 7-footer who bolsters their formidable frontcourt. MSU’s Xavier Booker’s length and athleticism pose a challenge for Crowl, leading to a victory for MSU. Prediction: MSU wins, 7-1.
On Dec. 10, MSU travels to Lincoln, Nebraska to face the Huskers at Pinnacle Bank Arena. Although there is hope for Nebraska early in the season, MSU has historically performed well in Lincoln, winning their last five games there. MSU’s winning streak continues as they secure their sixth victory in a row against Nebraska. Prediction: MSU wins, 8-1.
MSU hosts Baylor on Dec. 16 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit. It’s difficult to predict the outcome of this game as Baylor relies on transfers and highly-touted freshmen who are adjusting to a higher level of play. However, Carson Cooper’s stellar performance with a 20-point, 10-rebound game stands out in MSU’s victory. Prediction: MSU wins, 9-1.
On Dec. 18, MSU faces Rocket Watts and Oakland at the Breslin Center. In a surprising turn of events, Watts leads Oakland to their first victory over MSU. This game becomes a touching moment for Coach Tom Izzo as he witnesses the outstanding performance of his former guard. Prediction: MSU loses, 9-2.
Stony Brook visits East Lansing on Dec. 21. MSU dominates the game, and even Steven Izzo contributes with two 3-pointers, leading to a joyous victory. Prediction: MSU wins, 10-2.
On Dec. 30, MSU plays Indiana State for the first time since the 1979 national championship game. The game attracts numerous dignitaries, including Magic Johnson and Larry Bird. MSU emerges victorious in this historic matchup. Prediction: MSU wins, 11-2.
On Jan. 4, Penn State visits East Lansing. With a completely transformed roster, Penn State struggles against MSU. Jaxon Kohler makes his mark in his first game with significant minutes, while A.J. Hoggard records a quadruple-double, albeit including 11 turnovers. Prediction: MSU wins, 12-2.
MSU faces Northwestern on Jan. 7 in Evanston, Illinois. Northwestern’s Boo Buie celebrates his birthday with a noteworthy performance against MSU. However, MSU manages to secure the win, and at halftime, new Chicago Bears coach Jim Harbaugh is introduced. Prediction: MSU wins, 13-2.
On Jan. 11, MSU travels to Champaign, Illinois to face the Illini. With a roster featuring impactful transfers, the Illini carry the largest NIL payroll in the Big Ten. Spartan-killer Dain Dainja poses a challenge for MSU, but freshman Jeremy Fears Jr. shines with a career-high 10 assists despite the defeat. Prediction: MSU loses, 13-3.
The game on Jan. 14 against Rutgers in East Lansing is marked by boos directed at Rutgers coach Steve Pikiell for refusing to reschedule a game against Minnesota last season. This animosity from the fans propels MSU to victory. Prediction: MSU wins, …
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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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