For just the second time in program history (first since joining the America East Conference), the Bryant Bulldogs are in the NCAA Tournament. The 23 total wins are also the most since joining the D-I ranks. This very well is the best team they’ve ever had, but it will be tested like none other against one of the best coaches ever in College Basketball.
Michigan State was one of the biggest surprises this season, winning the Big Ten regular-season title. They earned a two seed in the Big Dance and project to go far. But in a matchup of contrasting styles, this game could get interesting.
How to watch Michigan State vs Bryant
Date: Friday, March 21st
Time: 10 p.m. ET
Venue: Rocket Arena in Cleveland, Ohio
How to Watch (TV): TBS
Streaming: fubo TV (link: https://www.fubo.tv/welcome/leagues/191260?irad=367782&irmp=374356)
Bryant record: 23-11 (14-2 in America East)
Michigan State record: 27-6 (17-3 in Big Ten)
Bryant vs Michigan State odds, spread and total
Odds provided by FanDuel Sportsbook (link: https://sportsbook.fanduel.com/)
Moneyline
Bryant +1100
Michigan State - 2500
Spread
Bryant +17.5 (-115)
Michigan State - 17.5 (-105)
Total
152.5 (over -110/under -110)
No injuries for either team
First time Michigan State and Bryant have faced off
Michigan State vs Bryant game prediction
Of the top seeds in the NCAA Tournament, Michigan State is one of those who some think could lose early. They only have two double-digit scorers, though freshman guard Jase Richardson (12 ppg) is playing at an all-league level right now. The team’s strength is its elite defense, ranking 6th nationally in kenpom.
Meanwhile, Bryant is one of the better offensive units in the nation, ranking top-20 in scoring offense (82.4 ppg). Rafael Pinzon leads the Bulldogs with 18.5 ppg, while America East Defensive Player of the Year Earl Timberlake (15.5 ppg, 8.2 rpg, and 4.7 apg) is the all-around guy to watch. This is a roster filled with former top-100 prospects that transferred down, so they’re the kind of athletes that could keep up with the Spartans.
This is a 2 vs 15 matchup, so Michigan State will have the advantage. However, look for Bryant to make a stand and keep it competitive overall. It’s a game you’ll have to watch in the second half but in the end, look for Coach Tom Izzo to prevail.
Prediction: Michigan State 80, Bryant 71