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Michigan State Basketball: 3 keys to victory vs. Louisville in Big Ten/ACC Challenge

By Nate Rhoades

Nov 20, 2021; East Lansing, Michigan, USA; Michigan State Spartans playerMalik Hall (25 moves the ball along the baseline at Jack Breslin Student Events Center. Mandatory Credit: Dale Young-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 20, 2021; East Lansing, Michigan, USA; Michigan State Spartans playerMalik Hall (25 moves the ball along the baseline at Jack Breslin Student Events Center. Mandatory Credit: Dale Young-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 26, 2021; Nassau, BHS; Michigan State Spartans forward Malik Hall (25) controls the ball while defended by Baylor Bears guard Adam Flagler (right) and guard Matthew Mayer (left) during the first half at Imperial Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 26, 2021; Nassau, BHS; Michigan State Spartans forward Malik Hall (25) controls the ball while defended by Baylor Bears guard Adam Flagler (right) and guard Matthew Mayer (left) during the first half at Imperial Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Malik Hall needs to come back strong

Malik Hall had a strong performance in the absence of Joey Hauser. He then backed that up with a huge game against Loyola Chicago. Hall shot 9-for-9 on the floor to finish with 24 points. He also added seven rebounds.

In his next two games he was basically non-existent. He only had five total points against UConn and Baylor. And in the game against Baylor, he had five turnovers. Rumor has it he tweaked his ankle in that game but it’s nothing too concerning, according to Tom Izzo.

The Spartans will need Malik back to his old self. He is a great defender and scores any way you want him to. He has no problem moving his feet on defense and getting a hand up in the passing zone or in your face. He also can score off the dribble, get to the rim, or shoot from deep off a screen.

Hall needs to come back and find confidence early in this one. He has the capability to be a top guy in this offense and he is always a top guy on the defensive side of the ball. Hall will shine and the Spartans will win this game.

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