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5 reasons surging Michigan State Spartans will win the 2020 Big Ten Tournament

By Mike Phillips

COLLEGE PARK, MD - FEBRUARY 29: Rocket Watts #2 of the Michigan State Spartans takes a jump shot over Donta Scott #24 of the Maryland Terrapins during a college basketball game at the Xfinity Center on February 29, 2020 in College Park, Maryland. (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images)
COLLEGE PARK, MD - FEBRUARY 29: Rocket Watts #2 of the Michigan State Spartans takes a jump shot over Donta Scott #24 of the Maryland Terrapins during a college basketball game at the Xfinity Center on February 29, 2020 in College Park, Maryland. (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images) /
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2. Cassius Winston is a major difference-maker

It is no secret that the Spartans will go as far as Cassius Winston will take them. Even though he hasn’t lived up to the potential National Player of the Year hype from the preseason, Winston is still the most efficient point guard in the Big Ten.

The entire Spartans’ offense runs through Winston, who uses his excellent court vision to find open teammates for easy baskets. Michigan State is one of the most efficient teams in terms of sharing the basketball in the country, and a lot of that can be credited to Winston’s unselfish play.

Winston is also more than capable of putting the team on his back if necessary, scoring in double figures in all but three of Michigan State’s games this season, including 27 against Ohio State on Senior Day at the Breslin Center. The senior point guard is the engine that drives the Spartans, and even if he isn’t having a good shooting night Winston can still make an impact with his creativity.

Another important aspect of Winston’s game that will translate well for Michigan State in the Big Ten Tournament is his leadership. Winston has been through nearly everything a player can experience in a college career short of winning a championship, which is valuable in tight moments.

Having a guy like Winston on their side makes the Spartans a massive threat to win the Big Ten Tournament. The biggest difference-maker, however, is on their sideline.