Rexrode: MSU’s ‘sprint’ to Final Four starts with defense

SYRACUSE, N.Y. – They call it a “run,” but it’s more like a sprint. Just two weeks ago, you were filling out your bracket and (unless a Michigan State fan choosing with your heart) putting someone other than the Spartans in the Final Four as the East Regional representative.

Four single-digit wins later — all featuring the pressure stops and shots and free throws that eluded the Spartans in six regular-season losses that could have been wins — and you have the least likely of Tom Izzo’s seven sprints to the Final Four. - Read more at Freep.com