Michigan State Basketball: 3 quick thoughts on ugly loss to Wisconsin

PISCATAWAY, NJ - FEBRUARY 05: Gabe Brown #44 of the Michigan State Spartans reacts in the closing moments of a game against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights at Jersey Mike's Arena on February 5, 2022 in Piscataway, New Jersey. Rutgers defeated Michigan State 84-63. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images) /

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Michigan State’s A.J. Hoggard celebrates s a 3-pointer against Wisconsin during the second half on Tuesday, Feb. 8, 2022, at the Breslin Center in East Lansing.220208 Msu Wisconsin 137a /

1. Point guard play is key

There were many times in the game against Wisconsin that Tyson Walker or AJ Hoggard drove to the basket and they had a step on their guy but instead of pulling up for a floater or trying to draw the foul they took an extra step and then made an extra pass.

This offense is led by its point guards. They have had the most success when the point guards are having a good game. That is why teams led by Cassius Winston, Keith Appling, Kalin Lucas, and Mateen Cleaves were so successful. These point guards led their team and demanded greatness.

Walker and Hoggard do not do this. They are shy and timid. They let the defenders get to them and it shows. When they are having a tough game, they get worse. They get inside their own heads and start to make mental mistakes.

They have to start demanding greatness, especially from themselves. They need to take those shots when they’re open — don’t force anything, but don’t make an unnecessary extra pass.

Point guard play is key in this offense and until these two step up and demand success, this team will continue to be good but not great.

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