Michigan State Basketball: 2023-24 season preview for the Spartans

Projected Starters

Guard – A. J. Hoggard (Senior)

There were growing pains at times last season, his first as the Spartans’ starting point guard, but Hoggard was playing fantastic ball by the end of his junior year. He average 12.9 points and 5.9 assists and had his best season shooting the ball from long range and the charity stripe. Now becoming a veteran leader on this squad, the Spartans will have plenty of success if Hoggard plays more consistently this year.

Guard – Tyson Walker (Senior)

After dynamic scoring success at Northeastern, Walker transferred to Michigan State back in 2021 and really started to find his footing last season. He’s hit 43% of his 3-pointers these last two seasons and is coming off a senior year where he averaged 14.8 points per game, the top mark for the Spartans. There’s plenty of potential here for Walker as the top scoring threat on a very strong Spartans offense; perhaps some special individual accolades could follow.

Guard – Jaden Akins (Junior)

A Top 50 prospect from 2021, Akins is the lone starter that isn’t at least a senior, but he’s coming off a pretty successful sophomore season. He took a step forward last year, averaging 9.8 points and 4.0 rebounds a game while hitting 42% of his 3-pointers. He’ll have the opportunity to step into a bigger role, especially in replacing Hauser’s production in this lineup. He has sharpshooter potential and also led the Spartans in steals last season.

Forward – Malik Hall (Senior)

Hall has played an increasing role for the Spartans since arriving on campus back in 2019. He’s never been a full-time starter, but he’s been an important piece in this frontcourt and gets his chance to shine in his fifth year. He put up 8.9 points and 4.3 rebounds last season but gets an even bigger role with Hauser’s departure. Healthy now this season, expect big things from Hall, who is not only physical but a great shooter from outside when he’s right.

Center – Mady Sissoko (Senior)

When he arrived in East Lansing three seasons ago, Sissoko was a Top 30 recruit, but he only got his shot last year. He barely played as an underclassman before emerging as the starting center, averaging 5.1 points and 6.1 rebounds. Still developing into a presence, Sissoko is known for his physicality and toughness and hopes to not only improve his offense but become an even better shot blocker this season.