Michigan State Basketball: 2017-18 preview for the Spartans

Key Reserves

Cassius Winston

Considering he came in as a top-40 recruit out of high school, Winston was a bit of a disappointment last season. He had ample opportunities to take over at the point guard position but could never separate himself from Nairn. Still, he has a much higher ceiling than the senior and is a much better scorer. The starting gig is his if he elevates his game this season.

Gavin Schilling

After missing last season due to a knee injury, Schilling will return to a more diminished role with the Spartans. He’s never been an offensive threat, but provides solid defense and rebounding. He also will serve as a mentor for the younger frontcourt players.

Matt McQuaid

There’s no question as to McQuaid’s role off the bench this year. Out of his 61 made field goals last season, 42 of them came from 3-point range.

Xavier Tillman

Ranked No. 85 by 247Sports, Tillman comes in as the biggest player on the team at 6’8″ 260 pounds. One thing about this roster compared to last year’s is the depth on the bench. There were times that Izzo was forced to ride with struggling players due to a lack of other options.

Tillman is similar to Ward as he is a prototypical back-to-the-basket center. He is going to force Ward to step up his game in terms of constant effort, otherwise this freshman will be glad to take more of his minutes.

Ben Carter

The former UNLV forward has yet to suit up for Michigan State, as a knee injury took him out before last season began. This roster has much more talent inside than when Carter originally arrived, but the senior can still give quality minutes and leadership in his last year.