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Tom Izzo’s Michigan State basketball team was upset by JMU in its season opener, sending shockwaves throughout the sports world. As it turns out, a bit of a ‘good deed’ backfired for the Spartans’ head coach and it could lead to a potentially awkward holiday season.
Izzo booked the matchup with James Madison in part because his nephew was on staff. He likely wasn’t expecting the family favor to end in a loss.
Matt Bucklin is an assistant in his second year on the JMU staff. He joined the coaching staff after spending four seasons at Clemson, serving as the Director of Operations.
He’s also the son of Izzo’s sister.
“Izzo booked James Madison for its season opener in part because of his nephew’s role with the team.”
He might be regretting that decision now.
James Madison entered the matchup having lost 42 of 43 contests against ranked foes. Michigan State hadn’t lost a season opener at home since 1970.
That alone should emphasize the magnitude of the upset.
A poor shooting night for the Spartans, particularly from three-point land, led to the defeat. MSU was just 1-of-20 from deep, and they converted just 62% of their 37 free throws.
The Spartans did show some fight, battling back to force overtime, but ultimately, they fell short. Following that final result, Bucklin probably shouldn’t expect much in his Christmas stocking from Uncle T.
Tom Izzo sends strong message to upperclassmen after loss.
The head coach was particularly disappointed with his upperclassmen. Tyson Walker finished with a team-high 35 points, but the rest of the Spartan’s experienced lineup was cold.
The remaining four juniors and seniors shot just 22% from the field, making 8-of-36 attempts.
After the game, Izzo singled that group out, sending a message for the future.
“I don’t have a good answer why three juniors and seniors played like they played, but I also don’t care, because I’ll play some freshmen then.”
The incoming class is talented, ranking sixth in the On3 recruiting rankings.
If the struggles continue from Michigan State’s upperclassmen, expect to see a few more of those freshmen on the floor.