Oakland Mich Golden Grizzlies vs
Michigan St. SpartansPredictions & Preview

Michigan State Spartans Look to Extend Dominant Streak Against Oakland Golden Grizzlies in Annual Matchup at Little Caesars Arena

The Michigan State Spartans (8-2) are set to take on the Oakland Golden Grizzlies (3-5) in their annual non-conference matchup at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit on December 17, 2024. Michigan State has dominated the series historically, winning all 22 previous meetings, including last season's 79-62 victory. Despite this, Oakland consistently challenges themselves with tough non-conference schedules. This matchup features legendary coaches Tom Izzo of Michigan State and Greg Kampe of Oakland, bringing over 70 years of combined head coaching experience and success to the court. Michigan State opens as a heavy favorite at -16 for this intriguing matchup.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Golden Grizzlies +1280 | Spartans -3500
• Spread: Golden Grizzlies +16 (-110) | Spartans -16 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 136 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Michigan St. will win straight-up is 97%.

Oakland Mich vs Michigan St. Stats

Oakland Mich Golden Grizzlies

In this game, the Michigan State Spartans come in as the favorites, ranked 17th in KenPom ratings with a strong defense at 17th nationally and an offense sitting at 29th. Their challenging schedule has prepared them well, with notable wins against North Carolina and close losses to top opponents like Kansas and Memphis. The Spartans excel at free-throw shooting but struggle with their three-point shooting.

On the other hand, Oakland Mich ranks 349th in offense, averaging 63.43 points per game, and 85th in defense, allowing 66.71 points per game. They struggle with shooting efficiency, especially from three-point range, and have a tough time on both ends of the court. In terms of rebounding and turnovers, Oakland Mich falls short compared to their opponents. Overall, Michigan State appears to have a clear advantage in this matchup.

Michigan St. Spartans Analysis

Oakland University has demonstrated resilience in facing a challenging schedule, with a KenPom rating of 192nd overall. Their willingness to face tough competition, reflected in their 22nd nationally ranked schedule strength, will prepare them for their upcoming matchup against Michigan State. However, their shooting struggles, including a low free-throw and three-point percentage, are a significant concern.

Leading the Golden Grizzlies' offense are Allen Mukeba and Tuburu Naivalurua, who will need to perform at their best to compete against the Spartans. Michigan State, with a power ranking of 21, excels on offense with high shooting percentages and assists. On defense, they are solid in rebounding but struggle with field goal and free throw percentages.

Overall, Oakland University faces a tough challenge against Michigan State but will need to rely on their key players and improve their shooting to have a chance at success.

Michigan State's Winning Streak Faces ATS Challenge Against Oakland

Michigan State has a strong history of winning against Oakland in head-to-head matchups, but has struggled to cover the spread. Despite the Spartans winning all team meetings since 2014, Oakland has a 7-3 record against the spread during this period. Oakland has demonstrated strong performance against tough opponents, such as only losing to Illinois by 12 points this season as a significant underdog. Michigan State's difficulties with three-point shooting raise concerns about their ability to cover a large point spread, potentially allowing Oakland to keep the game closer than anticipated. With these factors in mind, I am favoring the Golden Grizzlies in this matchup.

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