News Summary
The Michigan State Spartans men’s basketball team is undergoing significant roster changes ahead of the upcoming season. With several players declaring for the NBA Draft and others transferring, the team is focusing on new talent and leadership. Jaxon Kohler is set to take on a larger role, while the team explores recruiting options, including transfers and international prospects. Michigan State aims to strengthen its lineup and enhance its competitiveness in the Big Ten Conference.
East Lansing, Michigan – The Michigan State Spartans men’s basketball team is facing significant changes to its roster as it prepares for the 2025-26 season. Following a tumultuous offseason, several players have declared for the NBA Draft, graduated, or chosen to transfer away from the program. In light of these departures, the team is now positioning itself for a competitive season with an emphasis on leadership and new talent.
One player expected to step into a larger leadership role is forward Jaxon Kohler. Kohler has been with the Spartans since 2022 and has seen his responsibilities grow each season. During the last season, he played in 37 games, starting 34 of them, and averaged 20.8 minutes on the court. He contributed 7.8 points per game along with 7.5 rebounds, with a strong performance that included both offensive and defensive contributions. Notably, Kohler set a personal best by scoring 23 points in a single game and had multiple performances with double-digit rebounds. His defensive efforts were crucial during Michigan State’s NCAA Tournament run where he amassed 24 rebounds across four games.
As Michigan State looks to reclaim the top spot in the Big Ten Conference and compete for the Big Ten Tournament title, the team currently has 10 scholarship players on the roster. With key players like Jaden Akins, Szymon Zapala, and Tre Holloman venturing into new endeavors, Kohler’s experience and increased role may prove crucial for the Spartans’ success.
The team is actively working to strengthen its lineup with new recruits. Among their targets is backup point guard Divine Ugochukwu, a transfer from the University of Miami (FL), who is scheduled for an official visit on Monday and Tuesday. Ugochukwu averaged 5.3 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 2.3 assists during the previous season, and his addition could provide vital support in the backcourt.
The Spartans have also secured commitments from two notable four-star transfers: Kaleb Glenn from Florida Atlantic and Trey Fort from Samford. Their arrivals are expected to bolster the team’s depth and competitive edge going into the new season. Moreover, Michigan State is exploring international prospects, including Lewis Obiorah, a 7-foot-2 center from England. Recently named the English Basketball Player of the Year, Obiorah achieved impressive averages of 10.7 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 3.7 blocks per game last season.
As the Spartan’s coaching staff navigates a busy offseason filled with potential transfers and recruits, there is an air of anticipation regarding the construction of the team’s roster. With ongoing developments expected in the coming weeks, Michigan State is working diligently to finalize its player acquisitions. The focus remains on enhancing the squad’s capabilities in preparation for another deep run in the NCAA Tournament.
The Spartans’ adjustments come at a crucial time as they prepare to face their rivals in the upcoming season. Their proactive engagement in recruiting is a clear indication of their commitment to building a competitive team aimed at achieving success in the competitive landscape of college basketball.
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Additional Resources
- Spartans Wire: Lewis Obiorah Looked At By MSU Basketball
- Sports Illustrated: Spartans Updates
- Athlon Sports: Izzo Transfer Portal News
- Google Search: Michigan State Basketball Transfers
- Encyclopedia Britannica: College Basketball
