The 2017-18 Michigan State Spartans men's basketball team was nothing short of a powerhouse. Under the command of head coach Tom Izzo, this squad charged through the season with the flare and determination that only Spartan warriors can muster. This team had a packed roster ready to showcase their talent on the grand college basketball stage. But don't be fooled, the season was also spattered with challenges that only fired up the intensity on the court. Playing in the Breslin Center in East Lansing, Michigan, the Spartans rolled through their season with the kind of grit that makes left-wing pundits recoil. Let's critique their remarkable season with top 10 insights.
Number 1: The sheer talent and depth this team had was undeniable. With star players like Jaren Jackson Jr., Miles Bridges, and Cassius Winston leading the charge, any team facing them had to deal with an imposing triple threat. Jackson's defensive prowess, Bridges' overwhelming athletic ability, and Winston's playmaking made it clear that Michigan State was poised to dominate the Big Ten Conference with flair and vigor.
Number 2: Coach Tom Izzo deserves a standing ovation for orchestrating a team that finished their regular season with an outstanding 29–4 record. Izzo’s old-school approach, one that doesn’t bow to the whims of instant-gratification culture, showed how experienced leadership matters. His style, steeped in discipline and fundamentals, has proven successful over decades, much to the chagrin of those who embody today's culture of appeasement.
Number 3: Their unexpected early exit in the NCAA tournament shouldn’t overshadow their spectacular play all season. Facing a formidable Syracuse team in the second round was their undoing, but let’s blame it on a bad day and not a lack of skill or coaching. Even titans have bad days. One solitary defeat doesn’t nullify the power they've demonstrated throughout the season.
Number 4: Let's focus on Spartans' resilience. Navigating through the media storm and off-court controversies that tried to derail them, the Spartans stuck to their game. The gumption shown by these men deserves applause, for they chose to focus on what they could control: their performance on the hardwood. Their ability to keep their eye on the prize perfectly illustrates the value of staying committed in the face of opposition.
Number 5: Opening their season against North Florida with unparalleled zeal, the Spartans showed they were more than just hype. It set the tone for a roaring journey filled with victories, including a memorable win against rival Michigan which always adds a little extra flavor to the seasoned rivalry. They didn't let any opponent diminish their spirit or performance.
Number 6: This particular season will be remembered for its brilliant freshman class, chiefly Jaren Jackson Jr., whose defensive achievements earned him the Big Ten Freshman of the Year award. And it's not just Jackson; the infusion of youth players added vigor and explosiveness, bringing energy that electrified crowds and taunted competitors.
Number 7: While the season started with flashy offense performances, let's not ignore the defense, which was pivotal in sealing many victories. The Spartans consistently ranked amongst the top defenses in the nation, a testament to their rigorous training. Defense has always been a trademark of the Michigan State philosophy, ensuring opponents never found it easy to score against them.
Number 8: Discipline was the name of the game. This team showed what putting in the work can achieve. Izzo's strategy emphasized rebounds and not allowing turnovers, translating into an ironclad team performance on game day. It’s refreshing to see a well-oiled machine function without succumbing to the chaos of what happens outside the courts.
Number 9: The Spartan fan base was a crucial sixth man, providing unwavering support. Their allegiance wasn't just local; the passion spread wide across the nation wherever the Spartans set foot. The green and white spirit was more than alive, echoing throughout every arena they played in, intimidating the opposition with sheer presence.
Number 10: The future looks bright for this Spartan squad. Sure, there were stumbles, but the foundation for greatness still stands strong. Returning members had the potential to learn from this season, promising to come back hungrier and more driven next time around. Their potential to reshape the college basketball landscape remains, rallying behind talent ready to flourish.
In summary, the 2017-18 Michigan State Spartans men's basketball team served as a reminder of resilience, passion, and skill. A season that saw them rise to triumphs and (surprise to no one paying attention) face trials - defining characteristics of those worthy to carry the Spartan banner. This team, despite the setbacks, clouded over those doomsayers who doubted their prowess. Those who dared to count them out will have to reckon with their return as an even more formidable force next year.