CHAMPAIGN, Illinois – Almost every mistake his players committed incurred Tom Izzo’s wrath.
Bad shot selections and decisions? Careless turnovers that led to easy baskets? Sloppy footwork and poor positioning on defense? It didn’t matter if it was Miles Bridges or Kenny Goins – everyone got an earful from Izzo for their sins.
By the time Tum Tum Nairn’s desperate heave smacked off the backboard to close Michigan State’s 73-70 loss at Illinois, Izzo’s blood was boiling. Too much inconsistency, too much ineptitude.
Especially for March.
At this time of year, and with so much still undetermined and at stake, the margin for error is razor thin.