3 Predictions for Michigan Basketball vs Michigan State

Three predictions for Michigan basketball and Michigan State on Saturay. 

It’s safe to say that the 2021-22 Michigan basketball season has been a disappointment. The Wolverines have one solid win to their credit and are on the outside looking in when it comes to the NCAA tournament.

The good news is that there are 17 Big Ten games to go and if the Wolverines right the ship, get hot, and win say 11-12 of those games, they are going to get a berth.

But that’s a tall, tall order, especially with the way the Wolverines have played recently. Their defense has been an issue and while the offense has been more effective as of late, Michigan still isn’t consistent about shooting the ball well.

Michigan State, on the other hand, has lost twice and both were to top-10 teams. The Spartans rank in the top four of the Big Ten in scoring and defense and will likely be favored by tip-off time to come to Ann Arbor and beat the Wolverines.

Will it happen? Here are three predictions.

Michigan will be inspired

We’ll find out what kind of fight this Michigan basketball team has. This is Michigan State and in terms of hoops, it’s as big as it gets. Tom Izzo. Juwan Howard. Michigan-Michigan State.

The teams have split the last two years and last year both won on their home floor. The energy and the possible return of some guys who missed the Rutgers game should give the Wolverines a boost. Their backs are also against the wall.

A win might be asking a bit much with how this team has played, but I would expect an inspired effort and a shot in the second half of knocking off MSU.