Michigan State was a team led by freshman, but injuries throughout the season caused any veteran leadership the Spartans had to disappear. Eron Harris, Tum Tum Nairn, Alvin Ellis III and Matt Van Dyk all contributed in different ways so let’s hand out grades to the Spartan upperclassmen.
Source: isportsweb
First, Eron Harris’ mom regaled the sellout crowd with the most soulful rendition of the Star Spangled Banner in Breslin Center history. And as Marveda Saunders sang a cappella late Sunday afternoon, tears streamed from Harris’ eyes. He had mentioned last week that his mother, a former high school coach, had “a beautiful voice” and had performed the anthem in the past before a few of her games. But, he didn’t give it a second thought.
The Spartans (17-11, 9-6) will say farewell to three seniors on Saturday when they host No. 16 Wisconsin (22-6, 11-4) at 4 p.m. at the Breslin Center (CBS).
Source: MLive
In three years, Matt Van Dyk went from a junior college point guard to a starting Big Ten power forward.Not exactly a logical progression in a basketball career. Then again, Van Dyk’s journey to Michigan State hasn’t exactly been normal in any way.
Source: Detroit Free Press
Michigan State will honor three outgoing seniors on Sunday afternoon at the Breslin Center, capping what can only be called an unlikely journey for each.Following a critical matchup with No. 16 Wisconsin that tips at 4 p.m., the Spartans will go through their traditional ceremony, paying tribute to seniors Alvin Ellis, Eron Harris and Matt Van Dyk. It’s a ritual coach Tom Izzo moved postgame several years ago.
Source: Detroit News
Michigan State hosts Wisconsin in the final home game of the season for the Spartans and the lone regular-season meeting between MSU and the Badgers. Following the contest, Alvin Ellis III, Eron Harris and Matt Van Dyk will be honored during Senior Day ceremonies. MSU and UW are the Big Tens two winningest programs during the Tom Izzo era.
The season is a grind for any student-athlete, but what about the student-athlete that balances classwork and work on the court with work on the farm? Meet Matt Van Dyk and hear what his journey has been like at MSU. Also, hear from graduate transfer Ben Carter as he explains his position on the team now.