Michigan State Basketball: 5 bold predictions for Iowa battle in Week 5

PISCATAWAY, NJ - NOVEMBER 30: Cassius Winston #5 of the Michigan State Spartans drives to the basket as Caleb McConnell #22 of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights defends during the second half of a college basketball game at the Rutgers Athletic Center on November 30, 2018 in Piscataway, New Jersey. Michigan State defeated Rutgers 78-67. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images,) /

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LOUISVILLE, KY – NOVEMBER 27: Tom Izzo the head coach of the Michigan State Spartans gives instructions to Cassius Winston #5 against the Louisville Cardinals at KFC YUM! Center on November 27, 2018 in Louisville, Kentucky. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /

4. Cassius Winston finishes with double-double

Having a junior point guard the caliber of Cassius Winston is nice, especially since the depth behind him at the position is relatively non-existent.

Tom Izzo recruited Foster Loyer to be Winston’s backup, but he knew he’d have to work at the freshman as a project, of sorts, until he built up enough strength and confidence to compete at the collegiate level. That means playing Winston about 30-35 minutes per game.

With that extra playing time, Winston has gotten better on the defensive end himself and has worked on his offensive game, too. He’s making 45 percent of his shots from the floor and 43 from long-range, remaining hot like he was last season from deep. He’s also averaging 7.1 assists and 2.5 turnovers — both slight improvements.

Winston will continue his sharp play, coming off his best game of the year, scoring 17 points with 11 assists and turning the ball over just two times.

We can expect plenty more double-doubles from him this season.

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