Michigan State Basketball: Top 7 transfer options for Spartans to consider
By Ryan Kay
Here are seven possible transfer student-athletes who may consider playing in a Spartan’s uniform next season.
Pelle Larson
Info: Player Profile
Background: He is an international player as he is a native of Sweden, he is 6-foot-5, and just under 210 pounds, and he started in 18 out of 25 games in his lone season at Utah.
Eligibility: He would be immediately eligible and have sophomore status.
His Strengths: Larsson can shot well from beyond the arc as he made 25 of his 54 three-point attempts which gave him a 46.3% shooting percentage. He also is an excellent free throw shooter and can distribute the ball well.
Why Michigan State needs him: Even though he will only be a sophomore he is a proven shooter as he played well in international play and in his one season in Utah. Michigan State desperately needs outside shooting as we evident last season. With Henry, Watts, Foster, and Langford not returning, Michigan State needs a three-point specialist like Larson.
6. player. 455. . . . Collin Smith
Collin Smith
Info: Player Profile
Background: He is a redshirt junior who chose to opt-out of playing last season. The previous season he started all 30 games for the Knights and was their leading scorer that season.
Eligibility: He technically would have two seasons of eligibility left if he chooses to use both years of eligibility. However, because he already transferred from George Washington to UCF he may have to sit out a year due to the new transfer rules but may not because he already sat out last season.
His Strengths: He can score in the post, block shots, and get to the free-throw line. He has the experience and at 6’11 and around 240 pounds, he would do well in Izzo’s offense.
Why Michigan State needs him: The Spartans have plenty of big men on scholarship but Smith is a proven scorer with a history of having a high field goal-made percentage and he is a defensive-minded player who is willing to take a charge or block an opposing center’s shot. Michigan State needs a proven low post scorer for next season and Smith could fill that void.