Michigan State Basketball: 3 quick reactions from gritty win over Wisconsin

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - MARCH 11: Marcus Bingham Jr. #30 of the Michigan State Spartans reacts after a play in the game against the Wisconsin Badgers during the Big Ten Championship at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on March 11, 2022 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images) /

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Mar 11, 2022; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Michigan State Spartans guard Tyson Walker (2) shoots the ball in the second half against the Wisconsin Badgers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Tyson Walker is the go-to scorer

Tyson Walker has been solid for the Spartans this season. He has not been the scoring monster he was last season at Northeastern but he is doing so much for this team. He has emerged as the Spartans’ go-to scorer late in games when they need a bucket most.

With 1:30 left in the game, Walker drove to the basket and used a nice ball fake to make the defender leave his feet, giving him an easy teardrop to regain a two-point lead. Next possession, Walker once again hit a jumper; this time he came off a screen and the defender played off so Walker couldn’t get to the basket, so he just rose up and hit a dagger.

Walker also hit 5-for-6 free throws late to stop a Badger comeback.

Since his late-game heroics of getting Michigan State back into the Illinois game, he has been on fire in late-game scenarios. Including that game, Walker is 11-for-18 for 40 points and four assists in these situations. He needs to continue the aggressive offense late in games and hunt for his shot. He is the Spartans’ go-to guy in late-game situations.

The ball will be in his hands and he will make a play.

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