Oakland at Michigan State: How to Watch and Score Prediction

WHO: Oakland Grizzlies (2-1, 0-0) at Michigan State Spartans (2-0, 0-0)

WHERE: Breslin Center in East Lansing, Michigan

WHEN: Wednesday, November 11, at 6:30 p.m. EST

WATCH: BTN+

The Lady Spartans return home after a tough road win over Toledo, where they will face off against the always-tough Oakland Grizzlies.

It's been fun to watch Michigan State dominate through its first two games, taking a page out of the Tom Izzo playbook. The Spartans' tenacity on defense and on the boards has stood out early in the season.

Michigan State ranks fifth in the Big Ten, allowing just 54.0 points per game against Valparaiso and Toledo. The offense, however, still needs a bit of work. The Spartans are averaging 85.0 points per game, which ranks 10th among the conference's 18 teams.

Still, with Kennedy Blair leading the way, the Spartans can do just about anything. Blair is averaging 20.0 points per game, tied for 11th in the Big Ten. She's not doing it from beyond the arc, either. Blair is earning her points the old-fashioned way, as she is the only player among the Big Ten's top 24 scorers who has yet to make a three-pointer while still ranking among the conference's top 11 in scoring.

The return of Theryn Hallock has also been crucial for Michigan State. She's the only other Spartan averaging double-digit points (13.0), but her impact goes well beyond the stat sheet. Hallock is running around the court like every game is her last.

After an injury last season nearly ended her college basketball career just eight games into her senior year, it's clear she isn't taking her extra year for granted. She's giving everything she has every time she steps on the court.

The two freshman starters from overseas, Monique Bobongie and Emma Kathy-Otto, have also been integral parts of the team and should only continue to grow and improve as the season progresses. Both players are currently averaging 8.5 points per game.

As mentioned earlier, rebounding has been a major strength for the Spartans. Who else but Blair is leading the way, averaging 8.0 rebounds per game? She's followed closely by Tabitha Betson (7.5) and Kathy-Otto (6.5).

Oakland's visit to East Lansing will provide another good test for Michigan State. The Spartans will look to continue fine-tuning their offense and make sure it's ready for the challenge when Big Ten play begins.

As long as Michigan State continues playing the Spartan way and follows the lead of phenomenal head coach Robyn Fralick, the Spartans should be in for another big win.

Michigan State 85

Oakland 60