Michigan State Basketball: Breakdown of newcomers for 2020-21 season

Roster Finalization

In recent memory, there has never been more uncertainty in the sports world. This is mainly due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the changing dates that come with it. The Division I Men’s Basketball Oversight Committee is now saying that August 3rd or 10 days after the NBA Draft Combine, whichever comes first, is the new deadline for underclassmen testing the waters to withdraw from the draft.

While that helps the players facing a life-changing decision, it only puts the programs more in limbo. There are reports coming from CougFan.com that “there is a growing feeling schools with a player currently in the draft process will be granted a 14th scholarship this year if that player withdraws close to the deadline”. While this is not a confirmed rule and I have not seen it gain any traction since this report, Michigan State could potentially fall under it, as Aaron Henry and Xavier Tillman are facing draft decisions.

If Tillman, Henry, and Langford all return to school, Michigan State will have all thirteen scholarships filled. If one leaves, however, a scholarship will need to be filled.

As we enter July, it is very late in the recruiting cycle, but names tend to pop up at one point or another. There is 6’4″ combo guard Karim Mane who still has his name in the NBA Draft as of now. Assuming he withdraws, the Montreal prospect has a solid chance of ending up at Michigan State. Mane is an explosive guard who excels when driving to the hoop. There also could be surprise names that pop up on the transfer portal, as well.

Regardless of what happens with the roster, Michigan State is in great shape to contend for another Big Ten regular season title. Sissoko, Hoggard, and Hauser are all great additions to Michigan State’s roster and can help them in the 2020-21 season and beyond.