Let’s get those 3’s fallin’
Tonight, the Michigan State Spartans (1-0) face the Niagara Purple Eagles (1-0) in their second game of the young season at the Breslin Center. Coming off an 81-57 win over Monmouth, MSU will look to solidify its rhythm, particularly from beyond the arc, after a rocky 3-for-18 showing from three-point range in their first game. Meanwhile, Niagara comes in from the MAAC with a good bit of confidence after a high-scoring 100-75 victory against Houghton of the Empire 8 conference Monday evening. Despite Niagara’s solid opening performance, the Spartans’ Big Ten-tested experience and talent depth should be the deciding factor in this matchup.
MSU’s Strong Start: Akins and Richardson Shine
Dale Young-Imagn Images
In their season opener, Michigan State was led by standout performances from Jaden Akins and freshman guard Jase Richardson. Akins dominated with 23 points and nearly notched a double-double, grabbing nine rebounds and looking every bit the senior leader the Spartans need this season. Richardson, the only other spartan in double digits, contributed ten points off the bench with efficient shooting and a 4:1 assist-to-turnover ratio, making a strong case for continued minutes. Jeremy Fears Jr. dished out eight assists, while Coen Carr and Jaxon Kohler provided defensive intensity and energy in the paint.
Despite their final score, MSU’s three-point shooting left much to be desired. Their 16.7% from beyond the arc highlighted a clear area for improvement. Tonight, expect Coach Izzo’s squad to look for better ball movement to create open looks and regain some confidence from deep.
Scouting Niagara
Dale Young-Imagn Images
Niagara’s season opener against an outmatched even smaller school saw the Eagles shoot an impressive 44.4% from three and 57.4% from the field. Guard Jahari Williamson and Wing Olumide Adelodun led the way with efficient perimeter shooting, combining for seven threes on eleven attempts. The handsy pair also grabbed three steals apiece. Niagara’s offensive success was balanced across 7 players in double-figures, all of whom are 2024 transfers, including the five starters. Niagara went 16-16 last season and bowed out in the MAAC tourney quarterfinals. With this rebuilt team, no one knows quite what to expect. Regardless, the Purple Eagles will be tested against the physicality and defensive pressure they’ll face from an Izzo-coached roster.
Expect MSU’s guards to disrupt Niagara’s perimeter shooters and challenge the Eagles to find other scoring options. Niagara’s offensive game plan might not translate as easily against the Spartans’ size and athleticism on both ends of the floor.
Points of Emphasis for Michigan State
Dale Young-Imagn Images
Improving from Three: After a cold start from deep, look for Michigan State to emphasize getting high-percentage looks on the perimeter. Frankie Fidler, who showed some range in the offseason, could provide an added spark if he finds his stroke. Kur Teng is also a capable shooter who has gotten praise from Coach this week and may see more minutes to help space the floor and spread Niagara’s defense.
Dale Young-Imagn Images
Big Man Presence: With Niagara grabbing 46 points in the paint against Houghton, MSU’s forwards and centers will be crucial in shutting down the Purple in our Green space. Jaxon Kohler was solid on the boards last outing. Xavier Booker will need to be assertive inside to establish a presence early and play a more complete game. Cooper grabbed 11 minutes last outing and made the most of them, let’s see if he gets a little more run tonight as rotations switch between big and small, keeping our guys fresh while finding the right pairings for productivity going forward.
Dale Young-Imagn Images
Defensive Intensity: Against Niagara’s ball movement and perimeter threats, MSU’s defensive communication and rotations will be critical. The Spartans have been known for aggressive, disciplined defense, which could prove overwhelming for Niagara’s shooters if executed well. With players like Carr, Akins, and Fidler on the wings, MSU has the versatility to disrupt passing lanes and apply pressure where necessary.
Overall
Michigan State has the talent edge and the home-court advantage, which should tilt this game in their favor. While Niagara has shooting ability, MSU’s defensive length and athleticism could stymie the Purple Eagles’ offensive flow. Look for Akins to maintain his zen, build on his stellar performance, and for MSU to clean up their perimeter shooting in the matchup. Don’t call it a tune-up game for Kansas – Niagara doesn’t seem like a team to overlook. However, inside-out balance and a frenetic effort on the boards should seal the Spartans’ second win of the season. Go Green.