Michigan State Basketball: Tom Izzo talks up freshmen at media day

What did Tom Izzo and the rest of the Spartans have to say about this year’s Michigan State basketball season?

In a crowded room inside the Breslin Center, head coach Tom Izzo spoke to reporters to kickoff Michigan State basketball’s annual media day.

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The press conference, which lasted just over a hour, included everything from injury updates to how the freshmen are playing to what he learned from last year’s first round NCAA Tournament loss to Middle Tennessee State.

After Izzo’s press conference, the players were available to answer questions and give their take on the upcoming season.

INJURIES

Jan 10, 2016; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions guard Devin Foster (3) drives to the basket as Michigan State Spartans forward Gavin Schilling (34) defends during the first half at Bryce Jordan Center. Michigan State defeated Penn State 92-65. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O

In one month, Michigan State suffered two key injuries to its big men. UNLV graduate transfer Ben Carter and Gavin Schilling both suffered knee injuries that required surgery.

Carter already underwent surgery and Izzo said Thursday that Schilling will have surgery “in the next week or so.”

Izzo said he felt bad for Schilling because he had a great summer.

According to Izzo, Carter’s injury will force him to be out “for a more extended period of time” than Schilling.

FRESHMEN

Mar 30, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; From left to right McDonald’s All-Americans Miles Bridges (0) and Joshua Langford (25) who both will be attending Michigan State pose for a group photo before the McDonald’s High School All-American Game at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

Izzo spoke very highly of this year’s freshman class on Thursday.

“This is the most special group of freshmen I’ve ever had,” said Izzo.

The head coach also said several factors including talent, schooling and willingness to learn led him to that belief. Izzo said forward Nick Ward was the surprise of the freshman class.

“When I talked to (Zach Randolph), I said I have a clone of him,” Izzo said referring to Ward.

Ward responded to Izzo’s remarks and said that his comparison comes with additive pressure to try to live up to Randolph’s play.

Izzo also talked of Miles Bridges calling him a “blue-collar superstar” and an incredible athlete.

“Miles is a different kid than the one I recruited,” said Izzo. “He’s been special.”

Two years ago, Izzo admitted he thought Cassius Winston could be the best passer since Magic Johnson in the state of Michigan. After two weeks of practice, Izzo said he hasn’t changed his opinion on the freshman guard.

Joshua Langford received major praise as well. Izzo said he isn’t the “highlight reel player” Bridges is, but that he is a very solid, steady and intelligent player.

“Langford, may be the best defensive player of the freshmen. Very intelligent player,” said Izzo.

Izzo also mentioned that he could see all four of the freshmen starting this season.

“I could see us starting four freshman soon or later. That could happen,” said Izzo. “It’s new territory. We’re going to have to work harder.”

Definitely something to be excited about this year.