Michigan State Has to Force Turnovers to Advance on Friday

Michigan State knows Oregon's weakness and needs to exploit them to move on to the Big Ten Tournament semifinals.

Mar 13, 2025; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Oregon Ducks head coach Dana Altman and guard TJ Bamba (5) in the second half against the Indiana Hoosiers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images | Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

Michigan State comes into its matchup against Oregon in the Big Ten Tournament with a mix of strengths and areas for improvement.

In Oregon’s previous game against Indiana, they showed promising signs of offensive efficiency, particularly with their shooting. The team managed to hit 40% of their 3-point attempts and shot an impressive 80% from the free-throw line. This kind of shooting accuracy can be a game-changer, and Michigan State will need to match this trend against Oregon if they hope to stay competitive.

However, despite its solid shooting performance, Oregon struggled with turnovers in the Indiana game. Ball security will be crucial as it faces Michigan State, a team that thrives on forcing mistakes and capitalizing on fast-break opportunities.

If the Spartans can maximize on forcing turnovers, keeping the ball out of the opponent's hands and giving Oregon easy transition points, it could go a long way in leveling the playing field.

Defensively, Michigan State will need to bring intensity and discipline to match up with Oregon’s balanced offensive attack. The Ducks are a team that can score in multiple ways, so the Spartans must focus on contesting shots and limiting Oregon's offensive flow.

Defense will be key, especially if Michigan State's offense can continue to execute well. By applying pressure, forcing contested shots, and controlling the boards, they can disrupt Oregon’s rhythm and keep the game close.

In order to keep up with Oregon, Michigan State will also need to capitalize on its shooting. it will need to hit timely shots from beyond the arc to stretch the Oregon defense, as well as maintain its free-throw shooting efficiency.

If the Spartans can maintain their shooting percentages and play solid defense, they’ll have a chance to counter Oregon's offensive threats and keep the game within reach.

Michigan State’s path to success against Oregon lies in its ability to tighten up defensively, limit turnovers and sustain its shooting performance.

The Spartans have already beaten Oregon this season and know them well. If they can execute on both ends of the floor, they’ll have a strong chance to advance in the Big Ten Tournament and continue their postseason run.

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