Connor Earegood, James Hawkins, John Niyo and Bob Wojnowski predict the outcome of Michigan State’s NCAA Tournament first-round game against North Dakota State:
Predictions for Michigan State vs. North Dakota State
➤Connor Earegood: Tom Izzo will always be wary of an upset, but the Bison stomp too loudly to get one here. Tough rebounding in the Summit League is no match for the Big Ten. The Spartans’ bruising physicality should turn the Bison into beef on weck, no matter how well North Dakota State shoots the 3. Pick: Michigan State 79-59
➤James Hawkins: North Dakota State is strong on the boards, but it won’t be able to flex those muscles against Michigan State. The Bison should also beware of the Spartans’ transition attack that can feel like a stampede. Pick: Michigan State, 78-62
➤John Niyo: North Dakota State is capable of making this interesting if Michigan State does a poor job defending the 3-point line. But the Bison aren’t ready for the pace Jeremy Fears Jr. will push off makes or misses, and the easy offense that creates will help some of the Spartans’ struggling shooters. Pick: Michigan State, 81-66
➤Bob Wojnowski: This is bizarre. MSU also plays a team named the Bison. North Dakota State has dangerous ingredients, including decent 3-point shooting and rebounding. The Bison will keep it tight, for a while. Pick: Michigan State, 75-64
This article originally appeared on The Detroit News: Predictions for Michigan State vs. North Dakota State in NCAA Tournament
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