Spartans, Izzo in new spot as First Four participants
Michigan State and coach Tom Izzo are in an unfamiliar position.
Last time there was an NCAA Tournament, the Spartans reached the Final Four in 2019 — the most recent of eight trips under Izzo.
This time, Michigan State needed a late surge just to get into the Big Dance, and they’ll have to win an extra game, too. The Spartans (15-12) will face UCLA (17-9) on Thursday in a First Four matchup of No. 11 seeds in the East Region.
Michigan State has had 11 players start at least five games. UCLA coach Mick Cronin is impressed with how Izzo has made it work.
“He’s got a different kind of team this year because he’s played many, many different lineups — they can change at the drop of a hat and go with different guys,” Cronin said.
The Spartans are 5-0 when at least four of their players score 10 or more points and 10-12 when any fewer than that achieve double-figures. The Bruins are 11-0 when they hold opponents to 62 points or fewer and 6-9 when opponents exceed 62 points.
Aaron Henry has averaged 15.3 points and 5.7 rebounds to lead the way for the Spartans. The Bruins have been led by Jaime Jaquez Jr., who is averaging 11.7 points and six rebounds.
Georgia Tech star Wright out vs. Loyola
Georgia Tech will be without star big man Moses Wright in the first-round NCAA Tournament game against Loyola because of COVID-19 issues, according to multiple reports.
Wright, the ACC player of the year, also likely will be out if the Yellow Jackets advance to face the winner of Illinois-Drexel game, sources said. Wright averaged 17.4 points, 8.0 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.6 blocks.
Rodney Howard, a 6-10 sophomore, will likely play an expanded role and coach Josh Pastner might go with a smaller lineup for longer stretches against the Ramblers.
DePaul to interview 3 for coaching spot
DePaul is expected to interview Knicks assistant coach Kenny Payne, Pacific coach Damon Stoudamire and Detroit coach Mike Davis for their coaching position, according to a report by Stadium’s Jeff Goodman. Others are expected to interview as well.
This and that
Illinois’ Ayo Dosunmu was named the national player of the year by USA Today. Oklahoma guard De’Vion Harmon tested positive for COVID-19 and will not be able to play in the NCAA Tournament. Drake coach Darian DeVries agreed to an eight-year contract extension through the 2028-29 season.
Kentucky forward Isaiah Jackson will enter the NBA Draft but not hire an agent.