EAST LANSING – As Michigan State's basketball team grappled with the final minutes against Samford on Tuesday night, the immediate outcome seemed overshadowed. Freshman Jase Richardson, with his left ankle wrapped in ice after a clumsy landing on the baseline, was on the bench. Moments later, senior Jaden Akins joined him, having fouled out.

Surviving the Stretch and Looking Ahead

The Spartans are eager to move past the Bowling Green-Samford part of their schedule and anticipate facing Colorado, perhaps UConn, North Carolina, Auburn, or Iowa State in Maui next week. While these last two home games have been a stress test, they might prove beneficial in the long run, exposing the team to different styles and matchups. It's a valuable experience if Richardson emerges unharmed.

Tuesday night's 83-75 win over Samford offered more than just a victory. The Spartans had to handle in-game adversity, including an opponent's pressure defense that disrupted their rhythm. They also had to overcome their own shooting demons. Akins, whose shooting struggles have been a significant concern, stepped up. He scored 25 points in the game's final 26 minutes, hitting 10 of 15 shots after missing his first three, all 3-pointers. He made 3 of 4 from beyond the arc in the second half before fouling out.

Richardson was efficient as well, contributing 12 points on 4-for-6 shooting. Their performance next week at the Maui Invitational will be crucial, and having Richardson healthy will be a significant advantage. Tre Holloman played an important role but struggled with his shooting, making only 1 of 9 3-pointers. Xavier Booker also sparked a critical first-half run, helping the team gain control. MSU made 20 of 23 free throws, indicating a potential strength.

Feeling the 3-Point Heat

Despite missing their first nine 3-point attempts and having a season-long 16-for-89 shooting from deep, making 7 of 24 3-pointers in this game felt like a victory. Xavier Booker, Tre Holloman, and Jaden Akins hitting consecutive 3-pointers during a 30-7 first-half run was a turning point. It not only gave the Spartans a much-needed breather but also helped them establish a lead. Akins' two second-half 3-pointers further widened the gap against a resilient Samford team. If MSU wants to succeed in Maui and beyond, the shooting slump must end.

Xavier Booker's Impactful Night

Xavier Booker is still a work in progress for Michigan State, but Tuesday night he showed that he can't be ignored. With the team trailing 21-9 and struggling offensively, Booker buried a catch-and-shoot 3 from the right side. Later, he rebounded his own missed shot and scored, calming the nerves in the arena. This was the start of a 30-7 run led by Akins and Holloman that put MSU in control at halftime. Booker finished with seven points and one rebound in 10 minutes, including a driving layup in the second half. His positive impact was significant and crucial for the team.

On a team with several players still finding their footing, there is potential for someone to provide a lift on any given night. Booker's performance is a reminder that there are possibilities within the team. However, it's still uncertain how consistent these contributions will be.

The Spartans will arrive in Maui 4-1 and well-tested, having faced challenges from Bowling Green and Samford. Next week will reveal more about this team and their ability to perform on a larger stage.