Michigan State Overcomes Turnovers in Dominant Win Over UCLA

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Michigan State basketball coach Tom Izzo praised his team's fast start and veteran leadership in their dominant 82-59 win over UCLA, but voiced frustration over the team's 14 turnovers in the game. The Spartans have struggled with turnovers all season, ranking 211th in the country in that category, which has cost them in several losses. The win over UCLA improved Michigan State's record to 21-5 overall and 11-4 in the Big Ten, putting them in a three-way tie for third in the conference. However, the Spartans face a tough remaining schedule with three of their final five games on the road against ranked opponents.

Why it matters

Turnovers have been an ongoing issue for Michigan State this season, and Izzo is determined to address the problem as the Spartans make a push for the NCAA Tournament. The team's ability to limit turnovers will be crucial in their upcoming matchups against highly-ranked conference foes.

The details

Michigan State jumped out to a fast start against UCLA, led by their four veteran captains Jeremy Fears Jr., Jaxon Kohler, Coen Carr and Carson Cooper. However, the Spartans committed 14 turnovers in the game, which Izzo was critical of despite the dominant 82-59 victory. Turnovers have plagued Michigan State all season, as they average 11.9 per game (ranking 211th nationally) while forcing just 10.4 per game. This turnover differential has cost them in several losses, including their last three defeats.

• Michigan State entered the UCLA game on a 1-3 skid in their last four contests.
• The win over UCLA improved Michigan State's record to 21-5 overall and 11-4 in Big Ten play.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The schedule does not get any lighter for Michigan State before to close out the regular season. Three of its final five games will be on the road, including away matchups against No. 7 Purdue, Indiana and a regular-season finale against No. 1 Michigan in Ann Arbor.