Michigan State Basketball: 5 bold predictions vs. Oakland in Week 6

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EAST LANSING, MI – DECEMBER 9: Jaren Jackson Jr. #2 of the Michigan State Spartans during game action against the Southern Utah Thunderbirds at Breslin Center on December 9, 2017 in East Lansing, Michigan. (Photo by Rey Del Rio/Getty Images) /

1. Jaren Jackson Jr. records first career triple-double

Jaren Jackson Jr. has been close to triple-double territory over the past couple of games, but this is the contest in which he finally reaches the impressive plateau.

Must Read: MSU Basketball: Preview, prediction vs. Oakland

Not many Spartans have enjoyed triple-doubles over the years as Denzel Valentine, Draymond Green and Magic Johnson are three of the only players to reach that mark in school history. What an exclusive club to join for a true freshman big man.

How will Jackson Jr. reach triple-double status? He’s had eight blocks in a game already this year and the Oakland Golden Grizzlies are blocked by more than anyone in college basketball. That’s dangerous territory for this team, especially if Martez Walker and Kendrick Nunn try to drive the lane often. Jackson Jr. had eight blocks last week against Rutgers and will have 10 against Oakland.

On top of that, he’s had two double-doubles in his last three games, so scoring and rebounding hasn’t been an issue. He will reach 10 points rather easily and grab 11 rebounds.

Next: MSU Basketball: Game-by-game predictions for December

What will his final stat line look like? He’ll finish with 14 points, 11 rebounds and 10 blocks to go along with a couple of assists and two 3-pointers. Not too shabby for the NBA prospect.

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