MSU Basketball Eyes Hot Start Against Depleted Ducks

Michigan State is looking to extend its four-game winning streak as it faces a struggling Oregon team on Tuesday, Jan. 20. The 10th-ranked Spartans, holding a 16-2 record, aim to maintain their strong start to the season, which mirrors their performance from the previous year. Coach Tom Izzo's team has maintained an average margin of victory of 16.3 points in their Big Ten wins, demonstrating consistent dominance. Their only losses this season were by a narrow two points at Nebraska and a four-point road victory at Penn State. Oregon, however, is significantly hampered by injuries, with starting point guard Jackson Shelstad out for the season and forward Nate Bittle sidelined for a month. These absences severely impact the Ducks' scoring and playmaking capabilities. Guard Kur Teng has become a key offensive weapon for Michigan State, averaging 10.3 points and shooting 40% from three-point range over his last eight games. His increased playing time is shifting minutes for other players, including sophomore Divine Ugochukwu. The Spartans recently secured their first-ever road win against Washington, 80-63, continuing their successful West Coast swing. After the Oregon game, MSU will return home to face Maryland before heading to Rutgers.