Connor Earegood, James Hawkins, John Niyo and Bob Wojnowski predict the outcome of Michigan State’s first-round NCAA tournament matchup against North Dakota State:
Michigan State vs North Dakota State Prediction
➤Connor Elgood: Tom Izzo is always on the lookout for something disturbing, but the bison stomping is too loud to get one here. The Summit League’s tough rebounding can’t match the Big Ten’s. No matter how well North Dakota State shoots the 3-point ball, the Spartans’ physicality should make the Bison a beef in the game. Pick: Michigan State 79-59
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➤James Hawkins: North Dakota State is strong on the boards, but it couldn’t flex those muscles against Michigan State. The Bison should also be wary of the Spartans’ transition offense, which feels like a stampede. Pick: Michigan State, 78-62
➤John Neyo: If Michigan State struggles defensively from the three-point line, North Dakota State has the talent to make it interesting. But the Bison aren’t ready for a shot or a missed shot from Jeremy Fears Jr., and the easy offense will help some of the Spartans’ struggling shooters. Pick: Michigan State, 81-66
➤Bob Wojnowski: This is very strange. Michigan State also plays a team called the Bison. North Dakota State has dangerous ingredients, including good 3-point shooting and rebounding. The bison will remain tense for a while. Pick: Michigan State, 75-64
This article originally appeared in The Detroit News: NCAA Tournament predictions for Michigan State vs. North Dakota State
