Michigan State Basketball: Report card for non-conference play

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Dec 21, 2016; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans guard Matt McQuaid (20) brings the ball up court during the second half of a game against the Oakland Golden Grizzlies at Jack Breslin Student Events Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports /

Lourawls Nairn: C-

Lourawls Nairn, or Tum Tum, has been one of those guys who has been constantly working to improve his offense, but it’s not showing up on the court. He has the ability to get to the basket, but not so much to finish. He has the speed to be a weapon in fast breaks, but he’s not doing enough in the scoring column to have an effect. Tum needs to start making an offensive impact if he wants to see the floor more.

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Matt McQuaid: C

Supposedly one of the best sharpshooters to commit to Michigan State under Tom Izzo, Matt McQuaid had high hopes entering the season. He’s still getting the start more often than not, but the sophomore guard has been struggling with his shot. In fact, he’s shooting just 34 percent from three-point range and only 33 percent from the floor. He has a ways to go, but a lot of the struggle is confidence-based.

Kenny Goins: C

It’s hard to knock a guy who’s a former walk-on, but Kenny Goins has been disappointing this season. The sophomore forward earned himself a scholarship, but he probably didn’t realize he would have to be the main ‘big man’ at this point in the season standing just 6-foot-6. He has been average, at best, and his poor offensive performance this year has been shocking. He’s averaging just 3.3 points and 5.2 rebounds per game and disappears while on the floor.

Alvin Ellis III: C-

Alvin Ellis has been shooting well when he’s in the game, making about 39 percent of his three-pointers, but his decision-making has been poor. He makes too many bone-headed mistakes to earn himself more playing time.

Kyle Ahrens: C-

Kyle Ahrens has gotten some playing time with Miles Bridges out and he’s taking advantage of it. Although he’s only playing about 10 minutes per game, he’s making the most of his opportunities, making some clutch three-pointers. He’s not much more than a 9-10 man, though.

Matt Van Dyk: B-

One guy who has really grown into his unsung hero role has been Matt Van Dyk. The senior forward is undersized for a big, but he’s playing much bigger and is exceeding expectations. He is this year’s Colby Wollenman, averaging 3.1 rebounds off the bench and giving it his all every play.

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