Tom Izzo has pieced together a roster that has honestly done more than anyone could have predicted through its first 17 games of the 2024-25 season. Michigan State basketball has felt "back" for a multitude of reasons but its dominance on both ends of the floor has led the way.
In fact, Michigan State has been one of the most efficient teams in the country on both ends of the floor.
According to KenPom, Michigan State is ranked in the top 30 in both adjusted offensive and defensive efficiency so far this season. It is one of just 12 teams to rank in the top 30 in both categories.
12 schools enter the day KenPom Top 30 in both adjusted offensive and defensive efficiency ⬇️
— JBR Bracketology (@JBRBracketology) January 15, 2025
-Balanced attacks that can beat you on either end of the floor
-Surprised to see more Big Ten schools than SEC
-Highly likely our 2025 national champion comes from this group of 12… pic.twitter.com/Fp7sP2CnxF
If you're wondering what makes an elite team, it has to be consistency on both ends of the floor and according to KenPom, the 12 teams above are the most consistent and efficient.
As you can see, the top teams in the country are in this grouping of 12. Auburn, Houston, Duke, Florida, Illinois, Iowa State, Tennessee, Marquette, and Michigan (along with Michigan State) are among the top teams in college basketball and it's no secret as to why. They're all defending at a high level while getting the job done on the offensive end. It's why these teams' win margins are so lopsided.
There's still a long way to go in the regular season, but if Michigan State keeps this up, it could be hoisting its first Big Ten title trophy in five years and it might be making its deepest run in the NCAA Tournament since Cassius Winston and Co. toppled Duke.