Michigan State basketball: 3 takeaways from loss to No. 18 Alabama

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Nov 24, 2022; Portland, Oregon, USA; Michigan State Spartans guard A.J. Hoggard (11) drives to the basket during the first half against Alabama Crimson Tide guard Nimari Burnett (25) at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-USA TODAY Sports /

1. This team will go as far as the guards carry it

Is there a better backcourt in the Big Ten than Michigan State’s? Probably not, especially when Jaden Akins is healthy. We saw flashes of what Tre Holloman can bring to the table as well, so that gives the Spartans four really good guards who can all play at high levels on both ends of the floor.

Thursday’s loss was even more proof that this team is only going to be as good as the guards will it. AJ Hoggard and Tyson Walker carried the load and Holloman also chipped in six points.

When Michigan State needed a bucket, where did it turn? Walker. Just like in the win over Villanova, Walker was spectacular and caught fire against the Tide. He had his second straight 20-point game which is the first time that’s happened in his Spartan career. He is this team’s go-to scorer.

Hoggard started a little sloppy and finished strong. He had 18 points and hit some big threes late but he needs to be more consistent and maintain good body language. He can be a special player when he’s playing to his potential.

These two guys combined for 39 points while the rest of the team had 31.

The guards are going to carry this team one way or another.

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