Michigan State Spartans vs Washington Huskies Picks and Predictions January 9th 2025

No. 16 Michigan State streaks into matchup with Washington

The No. 16 Michigan State Spartans (12-2, 3-0 Big Ten) are set to defend their seven-game winning streak—the longest in the Big Ten—against conference newcomer Washington (10-5, 1-3) on Thursday night in East Lansing, Michigan. With both teams boasting dynamic rosters and unique challenges, this matchup promises intense competition as each squad seeks to assert dominance in conference play.

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Michigan State: Consistency Amid Challenges

Balanced Team Contributions

The Spartans have been on a tear, winning seven consecutive games through a team-first approach. In their latest victory, a 69-62 road win over Ohio State, 7-footer Szymon Zapala led the team with 15 points, becoming the eighth different player to top Michigan State in scoring this season.

Michigan State’s leading scorer, Jaden Akins, averages 13.6 points per game, but no other player averages double digits. Despite this, the Spartans excel by spreading the ball around. “If everybody gets the ball and we move the ball, I feel like that’s when we’re going to be at our best,” forward Jaxon Kohler said.

Offensive Strengths and Weaknesses

While the Spartans average an impressive 81.1 points per game, they’ve struggled from beyond the arc, shooting just 28% from 3-point range. Nevertheless, they’ve found ways to win through strong ball movement, rebounding, and resilience.

Head coach Tom Izzo acknowledged the team’s inconsistencies but expressed optimism. “We’ve shot it well, we’ve shot it poorly. We’ve rebounded well, we’ve rebounded average. Somehow, those all got to come together. If they do, you go from good to great,” Izzo said.

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Team Dynamics

Coach Izzo also praised the team’s chemistry and camaraderie, factors that have helped them navigate challenges thus far. However, he noted that the Spartans haven’t faced significant adversity yet, leaving room for growth as they approach the heart of conference play.

Washington: A Team with Upside

Star Power in Great Osobor

Washington’s forward, Great Osobor, has been a dominant force this season, leading the Huskies in scoring (14.3 PPG), rebounds (8.7 RPG), assists (3.5 APG), and steals (2.3 SPG). However, he struggled to make an impact in the team’s recent 81-77 loss to then-No. 22 Illinois, scoring just nine points.

Izzo acknowledged Osobor’s unique skill set, calling him “arguably one of the better players in the country.” He added, “He kind of does a little bit of everything. He doesn’t always look the part but he sure does make the part. He’s got incredible basketball skills.”

DJ Davis: A Deep Threat

The Huskies also feature sharpshooter DJ Davis, a Butler transfer who exploded for 31 points against Illinois, hitting 7 of his 14 attempts from beyond the arc. Davis provides Washington with a dangerous scoring option, especially when teams focus their defensive efforts on Osobor.

“When you got DJ Davis on the floor, I think you got to find him once he passes half court,” said Huskies reserve guard Luis Kortright. “If you don’t step up on his three, he’s capable of making seven threes.”

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Washington earned its first Big Ten win earlier this month, defeating Maryland 75-69. With a tough schedule ahead, including a Sunday matchup against No. 24 Michigan, the Huskies are eager to gain momentum and establish themselves in the conference.

Key Matchup Factors

1. Michigan State’s Depth vs. Washington’s Star Power
   • Michigan State’s balanced scoring and depth will be tested against Washington’s reliance on key players like Osobor and Davis.
2. 3-Point Shooting
   • The Spartans’ 28% shooting from deep is a concern against a team with a sharpshooter like Davis, who can stretch defenses.
3. Adversity and Growth
   • Michigan State has yet to face significant adversity, while Washington is already battle-tested from close games against top-tier opponents.

Prediction: Who Has the Edge?

Michigan State enters the game with momentum and home-court advantage. Their depth and adaptability have been critical to their success, but they must improve their 3-point shooting to fend off a dangerous Washington team. On the other hand, the Huskies’ hopes rest on standout performances from Osobor and Davis. If both stars can deliver, Washington has the tools to pull off an upset.

Conclusion

Thursday’s matchup between Michigan State and Washington offers a clash of styles and strategies. The Spartans’ team-oriented approach contrasts with the Huskies’ reliance on individual brilliance, setting the stage for an exciting showdown. Regardless of the outcome, this game is a pivotal moment in the Big Ten season, with implications for both teams’ trajectories moving forward.