Michigan State Basketball: 3 reasons why Spartans are currently struggling

EAST LANSING, MI - JANUARY 2: Head coach Tom Izzo of the Michigan State Spartans argues a call during the second half of a game against the Illinois Fighting Illini at Breslin Center on January 2, 2020, in East Lansing, Michigan. Michigan State defeated Illinois 76-56. (Photo by Duane Burleson/Getty Images) /

4 of 4

Malik Hall Michigan State Basketball (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /

Frontcourt concerns

To complete the “This-Isn’t-A-Typical-Tom-Izzo-Team” trifecta, there isn’t a true big man on this MSU team. They have looked completely out-manned in that aspect.

Just like Michigan State fans miss Cassius Winston a great deal, they probably miss Xavier Tillman a whole lot too. Although the Spartans rank 4th in the Big Ten in rebounding, there is a lack of a true center on this team at this point.

Tom Izzo seems adamant to keep Thomas Kithier at center, but that might be hurting them in the long run. Kithier isn’t as big or athletic as a lot of the big men in the conference, and just isn’t capable of defending the likes of Luka Garza or Kofi Cockburn.

The short term answer at center is probably sophomore Julius Marble. He didn’t play much last year, but with increased minutes this year looks like the best big man on the team. They could also go with a small ball lineup of Malik Hall at the four and Hauser at the five.

Next. 10 biggest Bracketology Winners from first month. dark

Uber-athletic, yet super-raw freshman Mady Sissoko isn’t ready yet, but once he is, he might be the long term answer. Either way, Izzo needs to take Kithier out of the starting lineup.

Home/Michigan State Spartans