Michigan State advanced to the second round of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament on Thursday with a dominant 92-67 victory over North Dakota State in Buffalo, Novel York. The Spartans’ performance, marked by efficient shooting and a physical presence, sets the stage for a Saturday afternoon matchup against Louisville.
Michigan State coach Tom Izzo expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance, particularly their offensive efficiency. “We did the job and we got some points off our bench,” Izzo said in a post-game press conference. “So when you shoot it well from the field, shoot it well from the three and shoot 89 percent from the line, I don’t know what our rebound total was, it wasn’t probably physical — yeah, plus 12, so it was a good win for us.”
The Spartans’ victory was fueled by a strong offensive showing and a noticeable improvement in forward Carson Cooper’s game. Izzo highlighted Cooper’s development, noting his increased dedication to the sport. “The greatest growth, I think, has come each year,” Izzo stated. “I think he went from liking the game to loving the game and now he’s spending more and more and more time. And you usually gain what you deserve, you get what you earn, you get what you work for.”
Izzo also acknowledged the motivation that comes with being a target for other teams. “I like when people are shooting at you. That means you’re somewhere,” he said. “To be in the top that we’ve been, at least right there where it matters if somebody beats you, trust me, that’s a good thing. I don’t want to be the other thing anymore. I was that early in my career. It’s not as much fun.”
The Spartans’ transition offense, spearheaded by guard Jeremy Fears Jr., also proved crucial. Izzo emphasized the connection between the team’s defense and their fast-break opportunities. “Our fast break starts with our defense, though,” Izzo explained. “When you defend well, teams don’t get into the paint as much. When they don’t get into the paint, your cut-outs are easier.”
Looking ahead, Michigan State will face a Louisville team that secured its own first-round victory against South Florida, 83-79. According to ESPN, Louisville will be without star freshman guard Mikel Brown Jr. Due to a back injury. Brown averaged 18.2 points, 3.3 rebounds and 4.7 assists in 21 games this year.
Michigan State holds a 6-6 all-time record against Louisville, with their most recent meeting resulting in a 73-64 victory for the Spartans in December 2021. The game is scheduled for 2:45 p.m. On Saturday and will be broadcast on CBS.
Izzo also took a moment to acknowledge senior Nick Sanders and the Walton twins, giving them playing time late in the game against North Dakota State. “It was very important,” Izzo said of playing Sanders. “He’s been here five years. He’s done a lot academically, he’s done a lot socially, he’s done a lot in the locker room.”
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