Michigan State May Have To Lean On Valentine A Lot

By LARRY LAGE/AP Sports Writer

ANN ARBOR, Mich. (AP) - Michigan State coach Tom Izzo says he's expecting big things out of Denzel Valentine.

The 12th-ranked Spartans might have to lean on the freshman guard Wednesday night at home against Minnesota.

Izzo says guards Gary Harris and Travis Trice might not be able to play against the Golden Gophers. Harris and Trice were both knocked out of last week's win against Illinois. Harris had back spasms. Trice had a head injury and needs to pass a concussion test to play.

Valentine scored a season-high 14 points to help Michigan State rally in the second half to beat the Fighting Illini. The versatile player also grabbed three rebounds, made two assists and had a steal. His father, Carlton, played for the Spartans from 1985-88 when Izzo was an assistant.

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