Key Highlights
- Michigan State basketball faces its first true road game of the season against Penn State on December 13.
- The Spartans are coming off a loss to Duke and hope to use that as motivation for their next game.
- Tom Izzo is optimistic about his team’s performance despite facing challenges in finding the right starting lineup.
- Penn State is currently undefeated, but Michigan State holds a strong record against them.
The Challenge of the Road
EAST LANSING — For the first time this season, Michigan State basketball will face two new circumstances: playing after a loss and playing a true road game. The ninth-ranked Spartans, who suffered their first home loss to No. 3 Duke on December 6, resume Big Ten play against Penn State in University Park, Pennsylvania, on Saturday, December 13 (noon, Big Ten Network).
Learning from the Loss
“We have concerns like we always do,” MSU coach Tom Izzo said after practice Thursday. “But they get a little more because of the circumstances we’re dealt with. … Hopefully, we’re over our little hangover of losing that game at home.” The Spartans are looking to bounce back from their loss to Duke and use the experience as motivation for the upcoming game.
Michigan State has been off this week due to final exams following their loss to Duke. Despite a promising start to the season, which included victories over Kentucky and North Carolina, they were defeated at home by Indiana on February 11. This loss is fueling additional determination within the team.
The Team Dynamics
MSU’s starting lineup remains an ongoing challenge for coach Izzo between now and the resumption of Big Ten play. They have experimented with different combinations, including Kur Teng, Trey Fort, Jordan Scott, and Divine Ugochukwu. “We’ve made no secrets,” said Izzo. “We’re trying to find the right thing.” The team is also focusing on improving their 3-point shooting as they currently shoot just 28.9% from deep (28-for-97).
Expecting a Rousing Welcome
The Spartans are aware of the challenges that lie ahead, but coach Izzo believes there is an opportunity to capitalize on Penn State’s environment. “I’m sure it’ll be Fourth of July and Christmas,” said Izzo with a chuckle. “Which shouldn’t bother us, because we’re used to playing in front of big crowds, even on the road.” He adds, “But it might up them. And plus, Mike’s a hell of a coach.”
Penn State’s Performance
Meanwhile, Penn State is off to a strong start with a 15-3 record and a 6-4 Big Ten record. They have faced mid-major opponents so far this season but struggled in their last game against Indiana, losing by a score of 113-72. Despite this loss, PSU remains undefeated at home.
Key players for Penn State include Kayden Mingo (6-foot-3), averaging 15.4 points with four assists and 2.1 steals; Melih Tunca (6-5) averaging 12.8 points and 3.5 assists per game; Ivan Juric (7-0) posting 9.7 points and four rebounds; Josh Reed (6-10) averaging 10 points and 3.9 boards; and Freddie Dilione (6-5), adding 13.3 points off the bench.
Prediction and Analysis
Chris Solari, a seasoned sports journalist, predicts that Michigan State will dominate early in the game with Fears leading the way. “The energy influx is short-lived for the Nittany Lions,” said Solari. “Fears and the Spartans assert themselves quickly with a distancing run from the outset.” He expects MSU to outshoot PSU from beyond the arc, giving them an early advantage heading into their Big Ten defense in 2026.
With a prediction of Michigan State winning 82-69, Solari’s analysis reflects the belief that MSU can capitalize on their experience and home-court-like atmosphere to secure victory against Penn State.
Contact Chris Solari: [email protected]. Follow him @chrissolari. Listen to the “Spartan Speak” podcast for new episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts.
