NCAA Basketball: Top-25 impact incoming recruiting classes entering 2024-25 season

21. Michigan State Spartans

It was not the season many had hoped for as the Michigan State Spartans went from a preseason top-four team in November to finishing with a mediocre 20-15 (10-10) record in March.

Because of the Spartans’ shortcomings, many people quickly began criticizing head coach Tom Izzo regarding how he handled former five-star recruit Xavier Booker, who was seldom used.

However, Tom Izzo has demonstrated he is more than willing to utilize freshmen in his rotation, such as Max Christie in 2021-22 and Rocket Watts in 2019-20.

In addition, AJ Hoggard and Malik Hall -- two starters on last year’s team -- each carved out serviceable minutes during their freshman year. Jeremy Fears also did before his freshman campaign was abruptly cut short after a season-ending injury.

Looking deeper into Michigan State’s incoming recruiting class, it’s evident that their freshman will have an impact. 

With the departures of AJ Hoggard (Vanderbilt), Jaden Aikins (graduation) and Tyson Walker (graduation), the Spartans backcourt will look vastly different, meaning an instant-impact role for incoming four-sar CG Jase Richardson and four-star SG Kur Teng is up for grabs.

Although Izzo will likely start Tre Holloman and Jeremy Fears, the versatility of Jase Richardson gives Izzo an instant-impact backup option either on or off of the ball. Kur Teng, a well-rounded shooting guard, is also expected to be a viable backup piece in the backcourt in addition to three-star PF Jesse McCulloh in the frontcourt.

How many minutes the Spartans’ incoming freshman get is still a question mark, yet their impact will be vital to the success of the 2024-25 Michigan State Spartans.