Recapping Michigan State Athletics’ fantastic four-day stretch

MSU basketball

The basketball team answered the bell as well.

The Spartans typically have a brutal non-conference slate which leaves them battle-tested come March. They have passed two of their first two pre-Big Ten arduous tests. The third challenge comes next week when they will face Virginia on Dec. 9 before opening league play on Dec. 20.

Their smothering defense and depth gives them a chance to catapult the Spartans to even greater accomplishments this winter.

Aaron Henry is stuffing the stat sheets and doing it all for the Spartans. His numbers are excellent at the moment — 11.3 points, 5.7 rebounds, 5.0 assists, 2.7 blocks and 2.0 steals per game. He’s evolving into an elite two-way player who can’t be kept off the floor and he’s finally becoming more aggressive offensively (by looking for his shot more) as he has emerged from the shadows of Cassius Winston and Xavier Tillman. He also is showing signs of developing into a leader as he is growing much more vocal to the delight of Tom Izzo.

Returning to school for his junior year was the best decision he could have made. If he can improve his three-point shot, maintain a high-motor and turn the ball over less often, he’s a sure-fire 2021 first round NBA draft pick.

Rocket Watts came alive against Notre Dame and Duke (13 and 20 points, respectively) and is showing the ability to handle point guard duties. Watts is comfortable playing off the ball but he fits in the lineup better at the one and developing his skills in college as a floor general will only enhance his profile as an NBA prospect as he lacks the ideal height (6-foot-2) to play shooting guard at the next level.

Foster Loyer has cooled-off since hitting six three-pointers in the opener vs. EMU, leaving the door open for Watts to supplant him. Watts is terrific scoring the ball and has the physical tools and tenacity to be effective as a defender.

Joey Hauser essentially gives the Spartans their own “big three” whenever he shares the floor with Henry and Watts. He had a double-double against both the Fighting Irish and the Blue Devils. He has to lock-in on the defensive end but his shooting and rebounding have been solid thus far although he hasn’t found his true groove yet after being out for all of 2019-20 due to transfer rules. He is a valuable weapon alongside No. 0 and No. 2.

Just as the sophomores shined against Duke, the junior trio of Gabe Brown, Thomas Kithier and Marcus Bingham Jr. struggled. The three juniors combined for zero assists and zero points in 32 minutes of play between them.

Meanwhile, Malik Hall was ultra steady (10 points and 10 rebounds) and Julius Marble’s impact was felt in a major way as he played flawlessly off the bench by tallying 12 points (on an immaculate 5-for-5 shooting). The pair of sophomores were dynamic in helping Izzo win his first game ever at Cameron Indoor. Fans or no fans, besting Duke is tough to do and it validates how potent this team is when they play with excellent focus and energy.

What Mel Tucker is achieving after being left with a bare cupboard by the previous staff is miraculous. Imagine how he will thrive once he starts to bring in decorated recruits. Izzo continues to assemble tough, determined teams year after year. Both teams have a lot to clean up and they’ve been far from perfect but there is no denying that the future is bright in East Lansing.