2009-10 Michigan State Basketball Predictions
Written November 12, 2009 by Kyle Hunter
The Michigan State Spartans surprised most of the college basketball world by making it to the NCAA Championship game before falling to the Tar Heels of North Carolina last season. Those that watched the Big 10 conference season closely may not have been terribly surprised though, since it was clear the Spartans had a great deal of talent and could beat about anyone in the land. Add in the fact that Coach Tom Izzo is probably one of the most underrated coaches in the land and you had to think that Michigan State team was a very tough out. Most of the Spartans top players are back for another year, and the Michigan State faithful have very lofty expectations for this season. Can the Spartans live to up to these expectations? The latest NCAA basketball odds to win the championship list Michigan State at one of the favorites at 8-to-1 to take home the hardware this season.
Two seniors departed from last year’s runner up team, Goran Suton and Travis Walton. Suton was a pretty major contributor on the stat sheet, but the Spartans have newcomers who should step in nicely. Walton will be missed because of his defensive intensity and leadership, but Izzo will groom others to step right into that spot.
Kalin Lucas was the Big 10 Player of the Year last season, so there’s no denying that he is the main man for the Spartans. Lucas is a very quick point guard that does a great job at playing fast, while staying under control. He has improved his three point shot immensely and has become a dual-threat on offense, with skills to take it to the basket and the shot to pull up and bury a three. While Lucas is the key man, he definitely has plenty of help in the backcourt. Durrell Summers stepped up as a nice scorer and shooter in the backcourt and should play an increased role this season. Chris Allen is a sharpshooter who can carry a team from time to time when he is at his best. Korie Luscious will be a sophomore and he can spell Kalin Lucas at point or the two may even play together at times. Luscious was very impressive as a freshman with a mature beyond his years style of basketball. What about down low? Raymar Morgan will play the wing, and Morgan is one of the most talented players in the conference Morgan battled mono most of last season, so expect him to improve on last year’s numbers greatly. Delvon Roe is an impressive post player with the ability to score and get on the glass. Draymond Green is the big man who can board with the best of them, which is exactly what Tom Izzo always wants. Get a $20 free play that you can use to bet on NCAA basketball when you open a new account with Sportsbook.com!
The main newcomer from this year’s class that should make an impact quickly is Derrick Nix. Nix is 6’9 and about 280 pounds of muscle, so he’ll fit right in as far as a muscular big man with soft hands that can get on the offensive glass.
The Spartans have the same nucleus they did a year ago and they should be great at the things they were last year again. Expect them to out-rebound opponents by a large margin, force a lot of turnovers, and hit their free throws in the clutch. The Spartans are a reflection of their coach, who prides himself on having teams that do exceedingly well in these areas. The Spartans should win the Big 10, with Purdue close behind. Come tournament time don’t be a bit surprised if you see the Spartans in the Final Four once again.
Visit Betfirms all season long for the best NCAA basketball picks in the business. There’s no better place to get expert college basketball predictions.
If you liked this article, you may also be interested in:
- Michigan State Spartans NCAA Championship Odds
- Michigan State Spartans Final Four Betting Preview
- Michigan State vs North Carolina: NCAA Championship Preview & Predictions
- Sweet Sixteen Picks: Kansas vs Michigan State
- March Madness Predictions: USC vs Michigan State
Got something to say?
No comments yet, but your thoughts are welcome!