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Michigan coach: Kalel Mullings ‘trying to be a superhero’ in MSU tussle

Michigan coach: Kalel Mullings 'trying to be a superhero' in MSU tussle

Untimely penalty on Mullings a turning point in Spartans' win

Michigan coach Juwan Howard said he was proud of his team's effort after a 80-69 loss at Michigan State on Saturday.

But Howard also said he was disappointed in the way some of his players, particularly freshman forward Kalel Mullings, handled the physicality of the game.

“Kalel was trying to be a superhero,” Howard said. “He was trying to do too much and he ended up hurting us.”

Mullings was called for a blocking foul with 11:25 remaining in the game and Michigan State leading by just four points.

The foul gave Michigan State two free throws and the ball, and the Spartans were able to push their lead to eight points on the ensuing possession.

Howard said he talked to Mullings about the play after the game, and he said he believes Mullings will learn from his mistake.

“He's a young player,” Howard said. “He's going to make mistakes. But we can't afford to have those mistakes at this point in the season.”

Michigan (14-11, 8-6 Big Ten) will return to action on Tuesday when they host Nebraska at Crisler Center.