Three takeaways from Michigan State’s blowout win over Northern Iowa

Michigan State basketball earned another win, their fourth of the 2026-27 campaign, routing Northern Iowa, 106-72. It was another strong showing from the Spartans, who are firmly cementing themselves as one of the nation’s best teams.

While the defense was not at its best, the offense was clicking at an elite level, and the Spartans were putting together a highlight reel against the Panthers.

Advertisement

Despite Northern Iowa being a lesser opponent, there are still a ton of things to takeaway from the game on Friday night, and measuring where the Spartans are at early in the season. Check out our three takeaways from the win:

1. Three-point shooting

A giant headache source for Michigan State fans in the past, the Spartans have had a history of struggling shooting the basketball. Early in 2026-27, that doesn’t seem like it is going to be a concern for the Spartans.

On Friday, the Spartans set a program record making 18 three pointers on 49% shooting. This brings the MSU total to 44-of-104 on the season, which is a stellar start to shooting the three ball.

Advertisement

2. Cam Ward has arrived

A player that can have a major impact this season is Cam Ward. Ward not only will be a strong force at power forward, but he will also be tasked with playing the small ball five spot for MSU this season.

After dealing with an early season injury, Ward did not get the luxury of a healthy training camp and exhibition season, which caused a slow start to the season. Now, he has broken through that shell and is showing how big of an impact player he can be.

On Friday, Ward led the Spartans in rebounding with seven.

3. Points in the paint

Not everything is positive, and while there is a ton to feel good about, there is some cause for concern in the middle of the defense. Michigan State gave up 32 points in the paint on Friday, and the interior of the defense just doesn’t feel great at the moment.

Advertisement

It is widely known that the five spot is a major focal point this season, and there are…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/three-takeaways-michigan-states-blowout-191546306.html

Author :

Publish date : 2026-11-14 19:15:00

Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.