College Park, MD — Maryland lost a close game to Michigan State, 61-59.
There were 10 lead changes well into the first half before Michigan State sparked an 8-0 run. Maryland was down by 12 points in the first half but outscored the Spartans 27-17 in the second. The Terps were 33% from deep and only shot 37% from the floor. Michigan State shot 60% from 3 and close to 60% overall, led by Malik Hall, Tre Holloman and senior guard Tyson Walker. Maryland’s “big 3” Jahmir Young, Donta Scott and Julian Reese led the second half comeback and held their opponents to 27% shooting. Unfortunately, a few turnovers late cost the Terps the game as they couldn’t complete the comeback.
Maryland’s Reese finished the game with 10 points, 12 rebounds and three blocks. He started off slow once again, he scored one point but collected eight boards in the first half. He seems to have a pattern with early offensive struggles but finds his groove in the second half. Though he didn’t have a good game he made his presence known defensively and on the glass. Reese did make a nice fadeaway jumper from 12 feet; it is good to see him attempt jumpers since it is the weakest part of his game.
Jahmir Young went for 19 points, four rebounds and four assists on the night. He went 3-for-6 beyond the arc with several of them giving the Terps the lead. He was productive as usual and came off a high scoring outing against Northwestern. Young’s claim to fame is his ability to drive but Maryland’s lack of floor spacing makes things very tough for him. He does heavy lifting every game and for a smaller guard that can take a toll. Young had seven turnovers with a few of them proving costly in the waning seconds of the game. He needs a scoring mate to take the load off him, the Terps hoped that injured guard Chance Stephens could fill that role.
Scott finished with 16 points, five boards, two blocks and two threes. He, along with Reese and Young, combined for four three-point plays to begin the second half and the Terps brought the game within two points. Scott recorded a layup minutes later to tie the game, 48-48 and provided two of the Terps’ six blocks in the second half. He has been more consistent and reliable offensively as the season progresses.
Michigan State’s Walker led the team with 15 points, five assists and two threes. He didn’t have the best shooting night, but he did enough to help them win. Walker averages about 20 points this year and provides them with reliable scoring. He made a lot of tough shots, showing he can be aggressive. Walker scored a three in the last seconds in the game that gave the Spartans the win. Holloman scored 12 points, going 3-of-4 from downtown providing excellent value off the bench. AJ Hoggard finished with 12 points and two steals that changed the complexion of this game.
Michigan State is now 4-4 in the Big Ten with a 12-7 overall record while Maryland is now 11-8 and 3-5 in conference play. They will face each other again on February 3rd, closing out the season series.
This article was written by Kenneth Moore, a correspondent and scout for NetScouts Basketball. You can follow us on Facebook, or on twitter.
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