Big Ten Basketball Tournament: Finals Preview
By Adam McGill
Game: Michigan State – Ohio State 3:30 PM ET
Game Analysis: Michigan State entered the Big Ten Tournament with a two game losing streak, but quickly remedied it by beating Iowa and Wisconsin by a combined 157-127. Ohio State has been carried this year by All-Conference player, Jared Sullinger. Both teams play a much different style of game then MSU, which should make for a very competitive finals game. Michigan State is much more explosive around the hoop, while OSU makes their money from the outside. The game will likely take several different turns, and will definitely be the game of the year in the Big Ten.
Matchup to Watch: G Keith Appling, Michigan State vs. G Aaron Craft, Ohio State – Appling embarrassed Wisconsin’s Jordan Taylor last night by beating him to every loss ball and just being faster than him. Craft on the other hand is not as fast as Appling, but he is much stronger. It is the classic speed versus power argument and this matchup will certainly be worth keeping an eye on.
Player to Watch: F Jared Sullinger, Ohio State – Sullinger will again be the focal point of the Buckeyes’ game plan. He has combined to score 54 points and 18 rebounds in OSU’s two conference game, and he will likely lead the team with another double-double today.
Prediction: Ohio State 70 – Michigan State 64
