Regardless of what happens with Michigan State, one thing is
certain: the Spartans will go as far as their leader Draymond Green is able to take
them.
Draymond Green is one of the more respected players in the Big Ten for many reasons. His scoring ability is exceptional for a Power Forward, but his defense, rebounding, and leadership set him apart from the competition. Despite their four losses, Green has still managed to average 11 points & 12.5 rebounds in defeat. So, the point is that even if Michigan State doesn't finish the night with a victory, it will not be due to a lack of effort by #23.
Now, Michigan State has an extremely talented team, don't get me wrong. Branden Dawson & Keith Appling are both talented sophomores with tons of potential. But Green stands out above all of the others on Tom Izzo's squad. The Senior has been to the final four twice, first when they lost to North Carolina in 2009, and during their 2010 semi-final loss to Butler.
Nowhere near being the most intriguing NBA prospect, this may be his last shot at glory. Although he can shoot from the outside better than many Power Forwards, he may be a bit of a tweener at the next level. Playing overseas is where most believe he will be for much of his professional career.
But for the time being, he is producing for Michigan State at a high level. What he brings to the table in terms of leadership is not something that can be taught. Draymond Green is the primary reason why I have the Michigan State Spartans as one of my 2012 NCAA Tournament sleeper teams.
one of the upsides of college ball is that its all one huge audition for the greatest stage of basketball. the NBA well he will be fore sure.
ReplyDeleteHonestly, I don't think that he has a very bright future in pro basketball (overseas excluded). At 6'7", he's a tweener. In the NBA, you have to be able to do one or two things GREAT... rather than being GOOD all-around. Green is the traditional college star. The student body loves him, coaches respect him, and he is a leader.
ReplyDeleteBut i'd have to agree with your "one of the upsides of college ball is that its all one huge audition for the greatest stage of basketball. the NBA well he will be fore sure" statement. I don't care what city your in, no NBA team's fans can come close to rivaling the Orange Krush at Illinois, the Izzone at MSU, and of course Duke's Cameron Crazies. The tournament is the perfect way for stars to shine & get exposure as well. The Final Four is the most exciting weekend in sports. It separates who can play from who can't play... plain and simple.
For the majority of the NBA season, it's hard to get excited simply because of its length.