We are mere weeks away from the start of the NCAA Tournament and that means Michigan State basketball will soon learn its fate in terms of matchups.
The Spartans are likely to be a top three seed barring a massive meltdown in the final two games and the Big Ten Tournament. Right now, Michigan State is a projected 2-seed and they could get some tough draws in the NCAA Tournament.
But these three "top" (top five seeds) teams should present favorable matchups for the Spartans if they're able to get past the first weekend.
1. Texas A&M Aggies (projected 4-seed)
There's been plenty of hype surrounding this Texas A&M team this year and while it's been deserved as they've been really good, I just don't think they're as great as they've been touted.
The Aggies are still projected as a 4-seed by Joe Lunardi despite losing the past four games, including two that came at home against Vanderbilt and Tennessee. They don't have a great offense which would play right into Michigan State's elite defensive prowess but they do rebound well which could cause some problems.
I do like this matchup for the Spartans, though, especially with them being a below average shooting team (30 percent from deep and 69 percent from the free throw line).
2. Iowa State Cyclones (projected 2-seed)
I've been really impressed with what TJ Otzelberger has done at Iowa State but I just haven't bought in to his team all that much this season. The Cyclones have just three ranked wins in conference play over Kansas, Baylor, and Arizona and there's a good chance that none of those teams are ranked when the new AP Top 25 comes out next Monday.
Iowa State has a solid offense and a good defense, but they don't rebound it nearly as well as Michigan State which may lead to a lot of fast-break points for the Spartans.
Also, the Cyclones turn the ball over about 12 times per game. That's a recipe for MSU success.
3. Kentucky Wildcats (projected 4-seed)
Another team that I think it solid but wouldn't mind being in their region if they earn the No. 3 or No. 4 seed is Kentucky.
The Wildcats are 19-10 on the season and have one of the worst defenses of any of the top teams, giving up over 77 points per game. They do have an elite offense, but the lack of defense could play right into Michigan State's favor. They're also consistently inconsistent as they haven't won more than two in a row since mid-December.
I would like Michigan State's chances against a 4-seed like Kentucky.