3 takeaways from Michigan State basketball's win over Mississippi State

Death. Taxes. Tom Izzo and Michigan State basketball winning games in March.

Nothing feels more certain than Michigan State showing up in the NCAA Tournament. On Thursday, the Spartans picked up their sixth straight win in the Round of 64, beating Mississippi State 69-51 to advance to the second round with a likely matchup against North Carolina.

It felt like a stress-free win for Michigan State as they led the entire way and held a double-digit lead throughout most of the second half. The Spartans showed up when it mattered most.

What did we learn from the Spartans' big win?

1. Mady Sissoko was once again a beast on the glass

Once again, Mady Sissoko came off the bench and once again, he was a monster on the glass for the Spartans when they needed it most.

Sissoko has been solid on defense off the bench in recent games and he's taken his rebounding to another level, grabbing nine on Thursday to lead the Spartans. He had two on the offensive glass which were both huge and he just looks more motivated defensively and on the glass lately. If that continues, he could be a problem for opponents.

I'm not asking for 15-20 minutes for Sissoko, but if he keeps rebounding the way he has, he should be playing a healthy amount. He has been the difference on the glass for the Spartans. He was the reason the Spartans actually won the rebounding battle with Mississippi State.

The senior deserves some respect.

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