The Spartans Have a New Leader In Draymond Green

EAST LANSING, Michigan -- The Michigan State Spartans may have found themselves a new leader in sophomore Draymond Green.

It's the little things that can turn a role player into a bonafide leader. Hustle, energy and consistency -- Green demonstrates all three characteristics.

Green's physical game and late free throw helped the Spartans ice the Wisconsin Badgers in a close, slow-paced contest, 54-47.

Green is no stranger to pressure and leadership. Green was a vital component of Saginaw High's state championship squad in 2008.

Needless to say, Tom Izzo noticed Green before hand, but the state title emphasized Green's skill set.

Junior point guard, Kalin Lucas, is still the "leader" of the Spartans -- Green is now his lieutenant.

Lucas was the man-with-the-plan in 2008-09, but has the Big Ten (and the rest of the country) finally got the hint that the key to beating Michigan State is to shut Lucas down?

If Izzo's men hope to win another Big Ten Title, reach the Final Four and ultimately win a National Championship, there is a need for someone besides Lucas to take charge.

Tempo control and leadership have earned Lucas a spot on the All-Time Spartans ledger -- Green is emerging as a worthy no. 2 for the speedy point guard this season.

Green is third on State's roster in scoring with 11.1 points per game, leads the team in rebounding with 7.9 per game -- fourth in assists with 3.2 per contest.

Green has added an improved scoring touch in his sophomore season, he's more physical than ever and brings a much needed emotional spark to Izzo's unit.

Wednesday night's Big Ten home opener against Wisconsin was nothing short of Green's "Coming Out Party". He was named "Player of the Game," and rightfully so -- Green finished with 11 points, five rebounds and three assists.

When the Spartans needed Green, he was there with the answer.

The big man possesses a mid-range shot, can shoot from the stripe and he's flat-out reliable.

Green crashed the boards, dished the rock and exhibited every other basketball cliche that you can imagine.

Intangibles -- check.

Tenacity -- check.

Hustle -- check.

Grit -- check.