Michigan State impresses in first-round NCAA Tournament win: 'We needed a chance, really'
No. 9 seed Michigan State downed No. 8 seed Mississippi State 69-51 on Thursday in the opening game of the first round, using a barrage of 3-pointers and stout defense to cruise on by.
The Spartans never trailed in the contest, looking like the team that many had projected to be one of the nation’s best in the preseason.
“I mean we just told ourself we needed a chance, really,” guard Jaden Akins told CBS sideline reporter Allie LaForce after the game. “Our season’s been up and down all year, but we said when we get in the tournament it’s a new season, anything can happen. So once we saw our name get called we just knew we had to take care of business first game. That’s what we did.”
Indeed.
The Spartans made 10 3-pointers, with Akins chipping in three of them. Guard Tyson Walker led the way in scoring with 19 points, while Akins chipped in 15 and forward Malik Hall added 10.
Akins had some jaw-dropping plays, including one highlight-reel dunk over Mississippi State defenders.
“I feel I’m an all-around player,” Akins said. “I can make threes, but I’ve got some athleticism too. I feel like I showed that tonight.”
If there was one negative on the afternoon, it was that the Spartans were a little loose with the basketball. They turned it over 16 times, allowing the Bulldogs to score 19 points off turnovers.
Coach Tom Izzo was upset with that in the first half.
“Did a hell of a job on the rebounding, that was a big thing,” Izzo said. “We defended them pretty good. The turnovers have led to baskets, and (Tre) Holloman‘s got to do a better job taking care of it. They had two lobs there. They’re good at it. Their strength. I wouldn’t say our weakness, but we’ve got to do a better job of it.”
But with the win secured, Michigan State can turn its attention forward to the Round of 32. North Carolina will take on Wagner this afternoon to determine which team gets to face the Spartans.
Michigan State is fully expecting North Carolina, but it will be ready for the Tar Heels.
“They’re a really talented team, well coached,” Akins said. “But we’re going to be ready to play.”