First thoughts after Duke's win in the national semi-final. By PAUL GOTHAM When it changed In 1:38, Duke turned a two-point edge into a nine-point advantage. Amile Jefferson converted one of two from the free throw, Quinn Cook converted a turnover into a 3-pointer. Tyus Jones went the length of the floor for a layup, and Marshall Plumlee hit a free throw. Duke led … [Read more...] about Rebounds & Putbacks: Duke 81 Michigan State 61
Tom Izzo
Butler – Michigan State: Tale Of The Tape
By Paul Gotham Setting: Brad Stevens and his No. 5 seed Butler Bulldogs (32-4) will travel a few traffic lights to Lucas Oil Stadium for a Final Four showdown with Tom Izzo and his No. 5 Michigan State Spartans (28-8). Plot: Horizon League meets Big Ten for a date in the national championship. Sub-plot: Butler has not lost since December - a streak that includes 24 … [Read more...] about Butler – Michigan State: Tale Of The Tape
Final Four Capsules: Michigan State Spartans
By Paul Gotham With four teams alive and kicking in the quest to cut down the nets in Indianapolis, it is time to look at how each of them got to this point. Michigan State Spartans Previous tournament appearances 1957 (Final Four), 1959 (Elite 8), 1978 (Elite 8), 1979 (National Champion), 1985, 1986 (Sweet 16), 1990 (Sweet 16), 1991 (second round), 1992 (second … [Read more...] about Final Four Capsules: Michigan State Spartans
College Basketball Splinters | March 29, 2010
By Paul Gotham Coaching through adversity To get to the Elite Eight or Final Four a team has to confront its fair share of hurdles. Some teams have more than others. Tom Izzo, Bruce Pearl, and Bob Huggins deserve a tip of the hat. Each of these guys guided their squads through some trying times. New Years was not a time of celebration for Pearl. Four of his guys were … [Read more...] about College Basketball Splinters | March 29, 2010
Tennessee – Michigan State: Tale Of The Tape
By Paul Gotham Setting: Tennessee and Michigan State meet in St. Louis as Bruce Pearl's No. 6 seed Volunteers (28-8) do battle with Tom Izzo's Spartans (27-8) on the court at Edward Jones Dome. Plot: SEC clashes with the Big Ten for a spot in the Final Four. Sub-plot: The game pits a pair of coaches and teams who have dealt with adversity during the season. Earlier in … [Read more...] about Tennessee – Michigan State: Tale Of The Tape