Michigan State Spartans Basketball: MSU 58, Florida 52 Kneejerk Reactions

The Four Factors

MSU overcame a poor shooting night from 3 by playing solid defense and having another great game on the offensive glass. MSU has had a better offensive rebounding rate in every game they've played so far (h/t to KJ).

Eron Harris had a really rough stretch with a turnover, allowed his man to go by him, and another turnover essentially ending his night. MSU just needs to find some consistency from him.

Denzel Valentine forced things and was benched for a little bit in the second half for it. He mostly recovered and knocked down the free throws to ice the game but it's not pretty offense when Valentine struggles.

Matt Costello was the MVP of the game (both in KenPom and in our hearts). He had 3 blocks to go with a lot of strong rebounds in traffic on both ends.

Bryn Forbes missed shots he can normally make. It happens. He played solid defense and is still someone you absolutely want taking those shots.

Assist rate is still insane as MSU had 18 assists on 23 baskets and their 80.4% assist rate is unprecedented in the KenPom era as no team has ever finished with an assist rate over 73%.

Bottom Line

MSU won and is building a nice resume. KenPom gives MSU a 66.7% chance of winning their next two games which would give them the most wins to start a season in school history. Next up is at Northeastern next Saturday who has already pulled an upset against Miami (FL).