Michigan State coach Tom Izzo considered benching point guard Jeremy Fears following questionable sportsmanship in consecutive games. Izzo expressed Fears is "remorseful" but ultimately decided against discipline, saying the redshirt sophomore needed to "grow up a little bit." Fears started against Illinois despite the controversy.

Fears drew criticism for swinging his leg backward into Langston Reynolds' groin area during a 76-73 loss at Minnesota, earning a technical. The Golden Gophers also complained about Fears appearing to put his forearm on an opponent's neck. In the previous week's loss to rival Michigan, he appeared to intentionally trip preseason All-America forward Yaxel Lendeborg.

Fact: Jeremy Fears led the nation with 204 assists.

Despite the controversy, Fears has maintained his breakout season form, averaging nearly 15 points as Michigan State's leading scorer while establishing himself as one of the nation's top playmakers. Izzo acknowledged the situation "got blown up" while defending his player against May's public criticism.