2024-’25 Michigan State Spartans Basketball Season Preview

A New Era Begins in East Lansing

After a disappointing 2023-’24 season, the Michigan State Spartans are looking to bounce back in 2024-’25. Head coach Tom Izzo is entering his 28th season at the helm, and he will have a young and talented team at his disposal.

The Spartans lost several key players from last year’s team, including All-American forward Gabe Brown and starting point guard AJ Hoggard. However, they have a number of talented players returning, led by junior forward Malik Hall and sophomore guard Jaden Akins.

Hall and Akins Lead the Way

Hall is a 6’8” forward who averaged 10.5 points and 6.3 rebounds per game last season. He is a versatile player who can score inside and out, and he is also a good defender.

Akins is a 6’4” guard who averaged 9.6 points per game last season. He is a good shooter and ball-handler, and he is also a tough defender.

Newcomers to Watch

In addition to Hall and Akins, the Spartans have a number of newcomers who could make an impact this season. These include:

• Freshman guard Jaxon Kohler: Kohler is a 6’3” guard who is a good shooter and passer.
• Freshman forward Carson Cooper: Cooper is a 6’7” forward who is a good athlete and defender.
• Junior college transfer Joey Hauser: Hauser is a 6’9” forward who averaged 15.7 points and 9.7 rebounds per game last season at Marquette.

Outlook for the Season

The Spartans have a lot of potential this season, but they also have a lot of question marks. They will need to find a consistent point guard, and they will need to improve their defense. If they can do those things, they have the potential to be a NCAA Tournament contender.

Schedule

The Spartans will open their season on November 7th against the Oakland Grizzlies. They will then play a tough non-conference schedule that includes games against Gonzaga, Kentucky, and Duke.

Their Big Ten schedule will be just as challenging, as they will face off against Michigan, Ohio State, and Purdue twice each.

Prediction

The Spartans are a talented team with a lot of potential. However, they have a lot of question marks, and they will need to find a consistent point guard and improve their defense. If they can do those things, they have the potential to be a NCAA Tournament contender.

Prediction: 22-10 overall, 12-8 in the Big Ten