Kansas vs. Michigan State: 5 biggest questions for 2018 Champions Classic battle
1. Who’s the biggest x-factor in the game?
There’s a ton of star power in this game with preseason All-American favorites Dedric Lawson of Kansas and Winston of Michigan State. But like many of the other Champions Classic games, this one likely will be close towards the final minutes, leaving any one player to change the tide of the game.
There are numerous possibilities about who the “x-factor” will be. On the Spartan’s side, McQuaid has a shot to make a bunch of three-pointers in a few minutes. 52 of his 67 made shots last season were from beyond the arc and as previously mentioned, Kansas is vulnerable in defending that area. Xavier Tillman was buried in the depth chart last season but the former top-100 recruit is set for a breakout campaign as a sophomore. He can play the four and five-spots and has high offensive potential.
Another sophomore who could have a big year is Marcus Garrett, a 6’5 guard who was a reserve last season. From a defensive standpoint, he can guard both McQuaid and Langford on the perimeter while allowing the explosive guards to perform on the offensive end. Garrett might not have the biggest impact in the box score but could play a major role in the game.
But the biggest threat to the Spartans may just be KJ Lawson. He’s not getting the same All-American consideration as his brother but is a very talented player in his own right. He averaged 12 ppg and eight rebounds a night two seasons ago at Memphis and had 11 different games of at least 15 points in a single game. With some much attention on Dedric, it may be KJ who shines in this game.
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It’s early but there’s plenty on the line, including Kansas proving that they’re worth being the No. 1 team in the country. For Michigan State, they want to send a message of their own and confirm that they’re a legit Final four contender in their own right. There have been questions about both of these teams all throughout the preseason. Now, we’ll finally get some answers on the court.