Michigan State vs. North Carolina: Who will win the position battles in this PK80 showdown?

EAST LANSING, MI - DECEMBER 04: Fans look at newspapers while the North Carolina Tar Heels starting lineup is introduced prior to playing the Michigan State Spartans at the Jack T. Breslin Student Events Center on December 4, 2013 in East Lansing, Michigan. North Carolina won the game 79-65. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /

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TULSA, OK – MARCH 17: Nick Ward /

Center: Nick Ward vs. Garrison Brooks

Garrison Brooks is a four-star center that’s been asked to come in and produce right away. So far he’s been fine, averaging 6.8 ppg and 3.4 rpg. He’s been a solid defender so far, and, while he’s not the same player of Kennedy Meeks or even Tony Bradley, he should become a solid player for North Carolina during his time there.

He takes on Nick Ward, who was in a similar position as Brooks was a year ago, coming in and starting right away. He had some ups and downs, with the biggest thing with him being about consistency. So far that hasn’t been an issue, averaging 15.2 ppg (second on the team) and 6.0 rpg. At 6’10 and nearly 250 pounds, there are few bigs that can handle him by themselves down low.

There’s a strong possibility that UNC will have to double team Ward in the post, as they just don’t have the personnel this year to deal with him. It would’ve been fun to see this year’s frontcourt for Michigan State play last year’s Tar Heels. Not too sure who would have the edge in that one, but at least at the five-spot it’s a bit clearer.

Edge: Ward

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