A few positives for Michigan State basketball on Selection Sunday

Michigan State basketball was given a tough play-in game on Selection Sunday, but let’s look at some positives for the Spartans heading into the tourney.

Michigan State finally ran out of gas this week after squeezing in eight grueling games in a span of twenty days. Maryland had their way with them in the second round of this year’s Big Ten tournament.

The Terrapin wings once again dominated the Spartan perimeter players. Michigan State fans were hoping for revenge. Instead, they witnessed an embarrassing defeat. Not much good can be taken from Thursday’s disappointing loss but here are a few positives.

• Malik Hall exploded for 19 points and 5 rebounds. He made 8 of his 12 shots (including a perfect 2-for-2 from deep) and played a terrific game. He has been a strong defender this year. Offensively, he’s been inconsistent other than a phenomenal double-double during a win at Duke in early December. Michigan State will lose a ton of production this offseason with Joshua Langford (most likely) giving pro ball a shot and Aaron Henry probably forgoing his senior season to enter his name in the 2021 NBA Draft after an outstanding junior campaign. Hall will have the opportunity to be a featured forward in Coach Izzo’s lineup once next season rolls around. He did a nice job of showcasing his potential against Maryland. This was the version of Malik Hall who torched Seton Hall last season for 17 points. More of this moving forward, please.
• Michigan State getting bounced with three days to spare in conference tournament play is sour for coaches, players, and the fan base but it will force the Spartans to catch their breath and reenergize themselves ahead of the NCAA tournament. They haven’t had much rest since their 19-day COVID-induced pause in action back in January. The Spartans should feel fresh and focused heading into their NCAA tournament opener. There is no room for any fatigue excuses heading into the big dance.
• Marcus Bingham Jr. continues to produce. Sure, his numbers won’t blow you away, but he gave Michigan State a solid 7-point, 5-rebound performance. While others off the bench have been up and down, Bingham Jr. has been great from mid-February on. Julius Marble didn’t score a single point against Maryland. What will it take to have Bingham Jr. replace him in the starting lineup? He’s ready for an increased amount of minutes.

The time of year in college basketball where it’s win or go home is upon us. The pressure is turned up. It’s time for Michigan State basketball to flourish like they do March after March.