Rivalry Renewed: Michigan State Battles Michigan in Breslin Center Clash

Tuesday, January 17, 2024 | Breslin Center, East Lansing, Michigan

In a highly anticipated Big Ten matchup, the Michigan State Spartans and Michigan Wolverines will clash at the Breslin Center in East Lansing, Michigan, on Tuesday, January 17, 2024. The rivalry between these two storied programs promises an electric atmosphere and intense competition.

Broadcast Information:

• TV: Streaming on Peacock
• Radio: Spartan Sports Network radio, including WJIM 1240-AM and WMMQ 94.9-FM; Sirius/XM Ch. 372 (MSU broadcast), Ch. 85 (Michigan broadcast)

Team Records and Rankings:

Michigan State Spartans:

• 12-8 overall, 4-5 in Big Ten play
• Unranked in AP and Coaches polls
• Ranked No. 18 by Kenpom.com

Michigan Wolverines:

• 7-13 overall, 2-7 in Big Ten play
• Unranked in AP and Coaches polls
• Ranked No. 86 by Kenpom.com

Betting Odds:

Spread: MSU -11.5

Coaches:

Michigan State: Tom Izzo (29th season, 699-288 record)

Michigan: Juwan Howard (5th season, 86-62 record)

Series History:

Michigan leads the all-time series 104-88.

The teams split last season’s two games, each winning at home.

Projected Starting Lineups:

Michigan State:

• Center: Mady Sissoko (6’9″, 4.6 ppg)
• Forward: Malik Hall (6’8″, 11.2 ppg)
• Guard: Jaden Akins (6’4″, 10.4 ppg)
• Guard: Tyson Walker (6’1″, 19.3 ppg)
• Point Guard: AJ Hoggard (6’4″, 11.6 ppg)

Michigan:

• Center: Tarris Reed (6’10”, 7.2 ppg)
• Forward: Olivier Nkamhoua (6’9″, 16.3 ppg)
• Forward: Terrance Williams II (6’7″, 12.7 ppg)
• Guard: Jaelin Llewellyn (6’2″, 4.3 ppg)
• Guard: Nimari Burnett (6’4″, 9.7 ppg)

Team Updates:

Michigan State:

• The Spartans are seeking redemption after a disappointing 81-66 road loss to Wisconsin.
• MSU’s NCAA tournament chances are still alive, with Kenpom.com projecting eight consecutive wins, including against Michigan.
• The Spartans struggle with rebounding, being out-rebounded in six of nine Big Ten games.
• MSU ranks last in free throws attempted in Big Ten play, limiting their easy scoring opportunities.

Michigan:

• The Wolverines are enduring a difficult season, losing eight of their last nine games.
• Leading scorer Dug McDaniel is suspended for road games, further hindering their performance.
• Head coach Juwan Howard faces criticism for the team’s struggles.
• Michigan’s defense and offense need improvement, especially without McDaniel.

Inside the Matchup:

Michigan’s performance at Breslin Center raises concerns for their chances.

The Wolverines possess talented players but have underperformed this season.

McDaniel’s absence impacts their consistency and team development.

Olivier Nkamhoua and Tarris Reed pose challenges for MSU’s frontcourt.

MSU’s backcourt holds an edge over Michigan’s guards.

Terrence Williams’ streaky shooting requires close attention.

Michigan’s recent lackluster performances raise questions about their motivation.

Prediction:

Michigan State 78, Michigan 64

Analysis:

This game holds immense importance for Michigan State, offering a chance to regain momentum and potentially start a winning streak. The Spartans have the advantage in this matchup, considering Michigan’s current struggles. However, the Wolverines have capable players and may find motivation in the rivalry aspect. Ultimately, Michigan State’s depth and home-court advantage should lead them to victory.

Don’t miss the highly anticipated clash between the Michigan State Spartans and Michigan Wolverines at the Breslin Center on Tuesday, January 17th. Witness the rivalry unfold and cheer for your team as they battle it out for supremacy on the court!