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Explore MSU Spartans basketball recruiting updates, from 2025 commits like Cam Ward and Jordan Scott to 2026 targets such as Ethan Taylor. Get insights on Tom Izzo’s strategy, NIL trends, and Big Ten comparisons.
If you’re a Spartans fan, you know how exciting it is to follow the team’s recruiting trail. Every year, it feels like building a puzzle, piece by piece, to see what the next season might look like. Whether you’re checking in after a big game or just curious about who’s coming to East Lansing, this look at MSU Spartans basketball recruiting will give you the scoop on the latest classes.
Key Takeaways
- MSU’s 2025 class ranks 14th nationally with 100% blue-chip recruits and an average NIL value of $149K, blending high school talent and transfers for depth.
- Early 2026 momentum includes commit Carlos Medlock Jr., with offers to top bigs like Ethan Taylor, signaling a focus on elite guards and centers.
- Tom Izzo’s defense-first approach adapts to NIL and the portal, addressing past misses on 5-stars through targeted recruitment.
- Big Ten expansion intensifies competition, but MSU’s NBA pipeline (e.g., Jaxon Kohler as a top draft prospect) remains a draw.
- Fans face anxiety over roster gaps, but recent offers to prospects like Mateen Cleaves Jr. (2028) show long-term planning.
Overview of 2025 Class
Let’s start with the group that’s already locked in for the upcoming season. The 2025 class for MSU Spartans basketball recruiting has shaped up nicely, mixing fresh high school stars with some key transfers who can jump in right away. It’s like putting together a team where you have young energy and experienced hands to guide them.
First off, the high school commits are Cam Ward and Jordan Scott. Ward is a 6-7 power forward with a solid 94 rating from recruiting sites. He’s known for his toughness on the boards and ability to stretch the floor a bit. Scott, also 6-7 but playing as a shooting guard, brings a 93 rating and sharp shooting skills that could open up the offense. Both signed their letters back in November 2024, and Coach Izzo has talked about how they fit his gritty style.
Then there are the transfers adding immediate punch. Divine Ugochukwu at point guard, Trey Fort as a shooting guard, and Kaleb Glenn at small forward—all with ratings around 91-92. Glenn’s a bit of a wildcard with his knee recovery, but when healthy, he’s a versatile defender. This group pushes the class to two high schoolers and three transfers, all blue chips, landing MSU at 14th nationally and second in the Big Ten. That’s a strong foundation, especially after a 30-7 season last year.
Picture this: You’re watching a game, and these new guys are rotating in seamlessly. Ward grabs a rebound, kicks it out to Scott for a three—it’s the kind of flow that could make the Spartans tough to beat.
Key 2026 Prospects
Shifting gears to the future, the 2026 class is where things get really intriguing for MSU Spartans basketball recruiting. They’ve got one commit already, which is a good sign of early momentum. Carlos Medlock Jr., a point guard with an 82 grade, pledged in July 2025. He’s got connections to other targets through his high school team, which could help pull in more talent.
But the big names are the targets still out there. Ethan Taylor, a 7-foot center ranked No. 1 at his position and 22nd overall, has MSU in his top six alongside powerhouses like Kansas and Kentucky. His official visit was set for early October, and landing him would be huge for addressing frontcourt needs. Then there’s Jalyn Collingwood, a three-star forward with MSU in his top seven.
Other offers are flying out too—guys like Julius Avent, Quinn Costello, Jasiah Jervis, Maxi Adams, and Junior County, a top-40 shooting guard. Many of these came in July, showing Izzo’s team is active. If you’re a fan stressing about the next wave, this list should ease your mind a bit.
Think about a scenario where Taylor commits: Suddenly, the Spartans have a dominant big man pairing with Medlock’s playmaking. It’s the stuff that builds championship runs.
Izzo’s Recruiting Strategy
Tom Izzo has been at this for years, and his approach to MSU Spartans basketball recruiting hasn’t changed much at the core—it’s all about defense and players who buy into the team ethos. But with the modern game, he’s adapting. He looks for versatile wings and bigs who can switch on picks and rebound like crazy, just like Ward’s style.
Looking back, past classes have had ups and downs, but post-NIL era, there’s been a noticeable uptick in quality. Izzo’s not chasing every five-star blindly; he targets fits. For example, he’s already eyeing 2027 and 2028 kids like Don Spillers and Mateen Cleaves Jr., building relationships early.
It’s like coaching a family—get the right personalities, and the wins follow. Fans often wonder why MSU misses on some top guys, but Izzo’s philosophy is about long-term success over flash.
NIL and Portal Impact
NIL has shaken up college hoops, and for MSU Spartans basketball recruiting, it’s a double-edged sword. The average deal in the 2025 class sits at $149K, which helps attract talent, but it’s not the biggest pot out there compared to some rivals. Still, it plays a role in decisions, especially for transfers who want stability.
The transfer portal is key now think of it as a quick fix for roster holes. With seniors like Malik Hall and Tyson Walker gone in recent years, MSU has leaned on it to replace production. But balancing it with high school recruits keeps the program fresh.
Challenges come up, like those close calls on five-stars. Izzo’s said it’s like finishing second in a race—no trophy. To handle this, track sites like On3 for portal buzz. If you’re worried about depth, remember the 30-7 record shows the strategy works overall.
Imagine you’re Izzo, scanning the portal for a big who can protect the rim it’s all about filling gaps without disrupting chemistry.
Big Ten Rival Comparisons
The Big Ten is a beast, and with expansion, MSU Spartans basketball recruiting faces stiffer competition. Compare to Kentucky or Kansas for targets like Taylor those schools have deep pockets, but MSU counters with its NBA track record. Jaxon Kohler ranks eighth in draft projections, proving Spartans develop pros.
In the conference, MSU’s class ranks mid-tier nationally (10-15th), but trends show growth. Expansion means tougher schedules, yet it opens recruiting doors too. Take Michigan they’ve got four 2025 commits, heating up the in-state rivalry.
It’s like a chess match: MSU’s edge is Izzo’s experience against flashier programs.
Roster Pain Points Solutions
Every fan knows the frustrations MSU’s post play has been shaky since Xavier Tillman left. Targeting bigs like Taylor is a smart move to beef up the center spot. Glenn’s injury adds uncertainty, so portal hunts for healthy bigs are crucial.
For depth, suggest following recruiting insiders on X for visit news. In-state retention? Offers to Michigan kids help. And the post-Izzo era looms, but current planning eases that.
Here’s a quick list of tips:
- Check 247Sports daily for commit alerts.
- Watch for NIL news to gauge pull.
- Join fan forums for roster debates.
- Track visits—they often predict commitments.
If you’re facing that “what if we miss again” worry, remember patience pays off in recruiting.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, if Taylor or similar prospects sign, the 2026 class could crack the top 10. Trends show more offers to top-100 bigs, like three in June alone. The NBA pipeline stays strong, drawing ambitious players.
It’s exciting to think about—a reloaded Spartans squad pushing for Final Fours.
Final Takeaway
Track MSU’s recruiting via sites like 247Sports for real-time updates to stay ahead on Spartans’ path to Big Ten contention.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are MSU’s 2025 basketball commits?
MSU’s 2025 basketball commits include high school stars Cam Ward, a 6-7 power forward ranked 89th nationally with a 94 rating, known for his rebounding and toughness, and Jordan Scott, a 6-7 shooting guard ranked 61st with a 93 rating, praised for his shooting accuracy. They signed in November 2024. Additionally, transfers Divine Ugochukwu (point guard, 91.48 rating), Trey Fort (shooting guard, 91.48), and Kaleb Glenn (small forward, 92.69) join for immediate eligibility. This mix gives the class a 100% blue-chip status, ranking 14th nationally and second in the Big Ten, with an average NIL value of $149K. Fans appreciate how these players fit Tom Izzo’s defense-focused system.
What is MSU’s 2025 recruiting class rank?
MSU’s 2025 recruiting class ranks 14th nationally and second in the Big Ten, according to sites like On3 and 247Sports. It features two high school commits Cam Ward and Jordan Scott both blue-chip prospects, plus three transfers: Kaleb Glenn, Divine Ugochukwu, and Trey Fort. The class boasts 100% blue chips with versatile wings and guards, emphasizing defense and shooting. This ranking reflects strong momentum under Tom Izzo, especially after a 30-7 season, and positions the Spartans well against rivals. NIL values average $149K, aiding in attracting talent despite competition from bigger programs.
Who is Ethan Taylor in MSU recruiting?
Ethan Taylor is a five-star 2026 center, ranked No. 1 at his position and 22nd overall nationally. Standing at 7 feet, he’s a dominant big with strong physical tools and rebounding skills. MSU is in his top six schools, including Kansas and Kentucky, making the Spartans a contender. His official visit was scheduled for October 3-5, 2025, and landing him could address MSU’s frontcourt needs. Teammate connections with commit Carlos Medlock Jr. boost chances. Fans see him as key to elevating the 2026 class amid Big Ten competition.
Has MSU committed any 2026 prospects?
Yes, MSU has one 2026 commit: Carlos Medlock Jr., a point guard with an 82 grade who pledged in July 2025. He’s the son of a former Spartan and brings playmaking skills, boosting early class momentum. This early win helps in pursuing other targets like Ethan Taylor and Jalyn Collingwood. Medlock’s high school ties could influence teammates to consider MSU. Overall, it signals Tom Izzo’s proactive approach in a competitive landscape, aiming for a balanced class with guards and bigs to sustain the program’s success.
How does NIL affect MSU basketball recruiting?
NIL deals significantly impact MSU basketball recruiting by providing financial incentives, with the 2025 class averaging $149K per player. It helps attract transfers and high school prospects, making MSU competitive against blue-blood programs like Kentucky. However, rivals often offer more, leading to challenges in landing top five-stars. Tom Izzo uses NIL to emphasize development and NBA pathways, like Jaxon Kohler’s draft potential. For fans, it means tracking deals can predict commitments, but it also raises concerns about program equity in the Big Ten’s expanded landscape.
What are MSU’s top 2026 targets?
MSU’s top 2026 targets include Ethan Taylor (No. 1 center, top six includes MSU), Jalyn Collingwood (top seven), and others like Julius Avent, Quinn Costello, Jasiah Jervis, Maxi Adams, and Junior County (top-40 shooting guard). Offers surged in July 2025, with multiple visits scheduled. Focus is on elite guards and bigs to fit Izzo’s defense. Momentum from Carlos Medlock Jr.’s commit helps. These prospects could push the class to top-10 status, addressing roster gaps like center depth amid Big Ten rivals.
