Jaden Akins Speaks After Michigan State’s Win Over New Mexico
In Michigan State’s 71-63 victory over New Mexico in the second round of the NCAA Tournament on Sunday, senior guard Jaden Akins played a pivotal role, leading the Spartans with 16 points on 7-of-11 shooting.
Akins, in what could have been his final college game, stepped up when his team needed him most, helping secure a Sweet 16 spot. Following the game, he addressed the media about the win.
Here is a summary of Michigan State head coach Tom Izzo’s opening statement in his postgame press conference:
Izzo: “We’re headed to Atlanta, and the meals are on you, right, guys?
“To start, I want to acknowledge that New Mexico played really well. In the first half, they gave us a serious challenge, and though we were only down by 10, it felt like we weren’t defending well and they were making shots. Credit to them for that.
“However, from about the 9-minute mark in the first half, we started playing better, and despite them shooting a solid 48% in the second half, I think it’s the best they’ve shot against us. They’re a talented team, and Amzil played out of his mind, scoring 12 points in the first half. He was hitting 3-pointers and doing everything.
“I thought Jeremy, Jaden, and Tre did a good job guarding Donovan Dent, who is a tremendous player.
“We gained momentum once our defense picked up, and we did well on the boards, finishing with a slight rebounding advantage. It’s a talented and well-coached team, and I’m just happy we came out with the win. It showed some character after we were struggling and down early.”
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