Michigan State Basketball: 3 takeaways from first-round win over Davidson

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Michigan State forward Joey Hauser (10) attempts a free throw against Davidson during the second half of Michigan State’s 74-73 victory over Davidson in the first round of the NCAA tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, S.C. on Friday, March 18, 2022. /

2. Joey Hauser had the breakout game he needed

Throughout the season, Joey Hauser was looked at as an inconsistent player who just never really had the confidence to take over games as an offensive threat. That changed on Friday.

When Michigan State needed a bucket, Hauser stepped up and made a big shot. He started the game 8-for-8 from the floor and finished 9-for-12 and hit some clutch free throws late to give him 27 points and eight rebounds. This was easily his best game of the season at the perfect time and it may have actually been the best performance of his MSU career.

Hauser had been lacking confidence all season long, but going off like this to help lead Michigan State to an opening-round win over Davidson is going to do wonders for his confidence.

You don’t want to let Joey get hot if you’re the opponent.

A confident Hauser is bad news for the rest of the tournament field because he can make shots from everywhere on the court and he adds another option for the Spartans’ offense.

This is exactly what Hauser and Michigan State needed.

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