MSU hoops thoughts, from afar

From a loud place that has the Big Ten Network, while writing football stories for tomorrow's paper (hey, it's better than nothing). Great second half and good win for Michigan State, with Delvon Roe giving his second straight high-energy performance and Durrell Summers blowing up from the arc.

    MSU ended up losing 36-34 on the boards, but it looked on this flat screen like the Spartans competed pretty well against a big, rugged opponent. Just eight turnovers for MSU, against 21 assists (seven for Kalin Lucas and six for Korie Lucious).  Both great numbers for the Spartans.

    This after a drab first half that featured more dismal MSU shooting. Minnesota didn't get much from anyone other than Trevor Mbakwe, and the Gophers won't beat many people when Devoe Joseph scores five. I still think the Gophers can be a factor in the Big Ten race. As for MSU, it took some time for the rust to be chipped off, but it looks like the break and the practices helped the Spartans. Still much work to do, but some signs of progress today.

    Be safe out there tonight, everyone. And don't forget, LIVE CHAT AT 11 A.M. SATURDAY. It'll be so good, it'll earn the all-caps treatment. Talk to you then.