On paper, it appeared as though the match-up on Saturday between No. 6 Ohio State and No. 7 Michigan State could have gone either way. Anytime two top-10 teams meet, the outcome is difficult to predict. One would assume both sides would understand that going in, but that didn’t seem to be the case for the Buckeyes. Not only did they lose to the Spartans, 58-48, but Jared Sullinger says they did so without class.
“Honestly, we looked like spoiled brats out there, if you look at the tape — arguing with one another, complaining about calls,” Jared Sullinger said Monday according to the Detroit Free Press. “We didn’t play our system. That was the main thing.”
Ohio State’s shot selection was poor and they quickly became discouraged. The Buckeyes were considered by many to be a Final Four favorite before the season began, but they have created a number of questions for themselves since then. One of the issues has been Sullinger’s attitude, but his comments on Monday could indicate he is looking to become more of a leader.
No team stands a chance in the NCAA tournament without resilience, regardless of its talent level. Ohio State went 14-for-53 from the field and somehow remained within striking distance of Michigan State. Had they kept their wits about them, they may have been able to claw their way to a victory. They’ll need someone to step up and be a leader if they hope to make a deep run in March, and it would make the most sense for that someone to be Sullinger.
