Michigan State vs. North Dakota State: NCAA Tournament Showdown
Game Details:
- Matchup: 3-seed Michigan State vs. 14-seed North Dakota State
- Time: 4:05 p.m. Thursday
- Location: KeyBank Center, Buffalo, New York
- Broadcast: TNT/Spartan Sports Network radio; SiriusXM Ch.
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Team Records and Rankings:
- Michigan State (MSU): Sporting a 25-7 record, the Spartans finished second in the Big Ten with a 15-5 mark.
Despite an early exit in the Big Ten tournament, they're ranked No. 11 in both major polls and stand strong at No. 11 in the NET rankings and No. 9 on Kenpom.
- North Dakota State (NDSU): The Bison boast a 27-7 record, having dominated the Summit League with a 14-2 conference record.
Though unranked in major polls, they hold spots at No. 114 in the NET and No. 115 on Kenpom.
Coaching Matchup:
- MSU: Tom Izzo, a seasoned veteran with a 763-309 record over 31 seasons, has led the Spartans to consistent success.
- NDSU: David Richman, with a 238-149 record in 12 seasons, has been a steady hand for the Bison.
Key Players:
- MSU Lineup:
- C: Carson Cooper (6-11) - 10.8 PPG
- PF: Jaxon Kohler (6-9) - 12.7 PPG
- SF: Coen Carr (6-5) - 11.6 PPG
- SG: Jordan Scott (6-7) - 5.9 PPG
- PG: Jeremy Fears Jr. (6-2) - 15.7 PPG
- NDSU Lineup: C: Treyson Anderson (6-9) - 10.4 PPG F: Markhi Strickland (6-6) - 11.8 PPG G: Trevian Carson (6-3) - 12.0 PPG G: Damari Wheeler-Thomas (6-0) - 14.4 PPG PG: Andy Stefonowicz (6-2) - 9.2 PPG
MSU Outlook: The Spartans are on a mission to make a deep tournament run, showcasing top-tier performances on both ends of the court.
Ranked No. 24 in offensive efficiency and No. 13 defensively, they’re formidable contenders. Their rebounding game is particularly impressive, leading the nation in defensive boards and ranking fourth offensively.
While their 3-point shooting is inconsistent, they maintain a respectable 35.9% from beyond the arc.
Jeremy Fears Jr. has been a standout, breaking the single-season assist record with 294, surpassing Cassius Winston’s previous mark. His playmaking has earned him All-American honors, adding to the Spartans’ arsenal.
NDSU Outlook: The Bison arrive with confidence, having swept the Summit League titles.
Despite not facing top-tier teams this season, they’ve excelled in their conference. They lead in offensive rebounding and are strong defensively.
Their shooting prowess, particularly from beyond the arc, is notable, with several players hitting 37% or better.
The Bison’s roster features seasoned players like Markhi Strickland and Max Majerle, adding depth and experience. This marks their first NCAA appearance since 2019, bringing back memories of their 2014 upset over Oklahoma.
Matchup Analysis: North Dakota State’s shooting and disciplined play make them a potential threat, but they lack a dominant inside presence. The Spartans’ size and rebounding edge could be decisive, especially if they control the 3-point line.
Prediction: For the Bison to pull off an upset, they’ll need to be lights out from three and protect the ball meticulously.
However, MSU’s strength on the boards and ability to capitalize in transition should tilt the game in their favor. Expect the Spartans to assert themselves early and extend the lead, securing a comfortable victory.