Tom Izzo and Michigan State are gearing up for the Big Ten Tournament with a chip on their shoulder. This is their chance to avenge regular-season losses to a couple of top-10 teams, but first, they need to secure a win in their opening game.
The Spartans won't hit the court until Friday, and their opponent will be decided after the Rutgers vs. UCLA matchup on Thursday.
Let's dive into some bold predictions for the Big Ten tourney.
- Jeremy Fears Dishes Out Over 10 Assists Per Game
Jeremy Fears Jr. is on the brink of making history. The sophomore point guard is expected to play at least two games in the tournament, inching closer to the Big Ten single-season assist record.
Averaging over 10 assists per game during the tournament could push him past the 300-mark for the season. Look out for a standout performance where he might rack up 14 assists in a single game.
- Six Spartans Hit Double Figures
With Michigan State's rotation tightened to 7-8 players, achieving balance with six players averaging over 10 points per game would be impressive. While Jordan Scott and Kur Teng averaged under 10 points during the regular season, both have the potential to heat up in the tournament.
Jeremy Fears and Jaxon Kohler are the obvious candidates, but expect Carson Cooper, Coen Carr, and Jordan Scott to join them in double figures. Teng could also come off the bench and deliver some scoring fireworks.
- Michigan State Seeks Revenge Against Two Teams
The Big Ten Tournament offers the perfect stage for redemption. With the expanded schedule, teams often meet only once during the regular season, leaving some unfinished business. Michigan State is eyeing a rematch with Nebraska in the semifinals, determined to reverse their earlier defeat in Lincoln.
The Spartans will then face Michigan in the Big Ten title game. Beating a team three times in one season is a tall order, and Michigan will discover this the hard way.
In a nod to their 2013-14 triumph, Michigan State is poised to overcome the Wolverines in the championship after being swept in the regular season. Expect an epic showdown as the Spartans aim to clinch the Big Ten Tournament crown.