Michigan's Dusty May slams Michigan State for 'dirty' play

Michigan coach Dusty May was fed up after the Wolverines beat rival Michigan State 83-71 over the weekend. He called the Spartans’ play “dangerous” and crossing the line from physical to dirty.

The Big Ten rivalry matchup was chippy throughout, but May took particular issue with a sequence involving Michigan State guard Jeremy Fears Jr., who appeared to intentionally trip a Michigan’s Yaxel Lendeborg during the contest. The Spartans standout had 31 points and six assists in the contest. 

“I think there were several plays that were very dangerous,” May said Monday. “I’m incredibly proud of our guys for the responses they had to those situations." 

Despite the physical tone, May said the win reflected growth in his first season leading Michigan, especially after last year’s struggles during the grind of conference play.

“I think we proved we can still win in different ways,” May said. “You’re challenged for every inch of the court. Last year’s team didn’t respond well at this point of the season. We addressed that through recruiting, and our guys stepped up.”

More: Dusty May set the tone before tipoff and Michigan followed

Michigan State coach Tom Izzo dismissed May’s remarks.“I thought there were a couple of plays the other way, too,” Izzo said. “Michigan’s over. I’m moving on.”

The teams meet again March 8 at Crisler Center. Michigan sits No. 2 in the AP Top 25, behind unbeaten Arizona, while Michigan State is ranked 10th.

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