Michigan State leverages guard depth against New Mexico's Dent

Michigan State is focused on using its depth in the guard position to stop New Mexico's Donovan Dent in the second round of the NCAA Tournament. The Spartans have ten players averaging at least ten minutes on the court each game. They believe that varying defenders will make it harder for Dent, who has been performing well recently. Dent is the Mountain West Player of the Year and has scored over 20 points in the last seven games. He averages 20.6 points and 6.4 assists per game. In New Mexico’s victory over Marquette, he scored 21 points and had six assists but also had eight turnovers. Michigan State's Jaden Akins, a strong defensive player, is expected to take on the challenge of guarding Dent. Meanwhile, New Mexico is looking to finally make it past the second round, as they have failed to reach the Sweet 16 since 1985 despite multiple appearances. In another matchup, Ole Miss faces Iowa State. Ole Miss is looking to advance further in the tournament for the first time since 2001. Ole Miss forward Malik Dia praises his coach, Chris Beard, for his intensity and ability to bring out the best in players. Beard acknowledges Iowa State's strong identity as a tough and connected team. Winners from today's games will move on to Atlanta for the next round.