Michigan State basketball: 3 reasons the Spartans will beat No. 17 Indiana

Michigan State basketball: 3 reasons the Spartans will knock off No. 17 Indiana

Jan 22, 2023; Bloomington, Indiana, USA; Michigan State Spartans forward Joey Hauser (10) dribbles the ball while Indiana Hoosiers forward Trayce Jackson-Davis (23) defends in the second half at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports /

2 of 3

Feb 12, 2023; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Michigan State Spartans forward Jaxon Kohler (0) takes the jump shot as Ohio State Buckeyes center Felix Okpara (34) defends during the first half at Value City Arena. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Jaxon Kohler, Carson Cooper will provide a spark off the bench

Jaxon Kohler has been really solid lately and I’ve been petitioning for him to get more minutes, but don’t sleep on Carson Cooper either.

Kohler played well in just eight minutes of action at Michigan, recording four points with three rebounds and a block. He didn’t look great defensively, but he held his own. His offensive prowess more than makes up for his defensive shortcomings so I think he’ll see the floor more against Indiana on Tuesday night.

As for Cooper, he’s not a true offensive threat — although he does get an occasional dunk or layup — but his defense has been impressive. Michigan State will need that against Trayce Jackson-Davis.

Both guys are going to provide sparks off the bench in the post for Michigan State and help contain TJD and get some production offensively down low.

Having teams respect your post offense and defense goes a long way.

Home/Spartans Basketball