Opinion
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Can Michigan State Spartans Dominate at Crisler Center?

As the Michigan State Spartans gear up to face their in-state rivals, the Michigan Wolverines, at the Crisler Center, fans are eager to see if they can carry forward their momentum from recent victories. The upcoming clash scheduled for February 18 is more than just a game; it's a battle for state supremacy.


Feb 18, 2023; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA;  Michigan State Spartans center Mady Sissoko (22) passes the ball to guard Jaden Akins (3) against Michigan Wolverines center Hunter Dickinson (1) in the first half at Crisler Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

The Spartans have been on an impressive run, showcasing a blend of offensive firepower and defensive solidity. Their last game against Stony Brook Seawolves on December 21 saw them rack up 99 points with an astonishing field goal percentage of 59 percent and a two-point shooting percentage that nearly hit the 80 percent mark. With such high efficiency, MSU demonstrated they could dominate inside the paint while also spreading out their offense to hit from beyond the arc with a respectable three-point percentage of 39 percent.


Their assists-to-turnover ratio stood at an impressive 3.0 in that game, indicating unselfish play and smart ball movement - key factors against a Wolverines team known for its disciplined defense. Furthermore, MSU's defense was no less remarkable; they managed seven blocks and six steals while limiting personal fouls to just nine.


Feb 18, 2023; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA;  Michigan Wolverines guard Kobe Bufkin (2) shoots the ball against Michigan State Spartans center Carson Cooper (15) in the first half at Crisler Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

In another display of dominance against Oakland Golden Grizzlies on December 19, MSU secured a comfortable win with 79 points. They maintained high shooting percentages across the board – including free throws at 75 percent – which could be crucial in what promises to be a tightly contested affair at Ann Arbor.


However, it would be remiss not to consider the challenge posed by MICH. In their last notable matchup against Baylor Bears on December 16 where Baylor was ranked sixth nationally, MSU came out on top with an impressive scoreline of 88-64 despite playing away from home at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit. This victory was characterized by aggressive defense leading to fifteen steals and converting turnovers into points effectively – something they'll look to replicate against MICH.


Feb 18, 2023; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA;  Michigan Wolverines guard Kobe Bufkin (2) controls the ball against Michigan State Spartans forward Malik Hall (25) in the first half at Crisler Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

While past performances suggest that MSU has what it takes to emerge victorious once again, basketball is unpredictable by nature. The Wolverines will have home-court advantage and will undoubtedly look to disrupt MSU's rhythm early on.


Fans can catch this highly anticipated encounter live on FOX as these two titanic teams lock horns under national spotlight come February 18th at Crisler Center in Ann Arbor starting at eight o'clock Eastern Time (ET). Will Spartan spirit prevail or will Wolverine resilience stand tall? Only time will tell as we await tip-off with bated breath.

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