Michigan State’s basketball season came to a disappointing end with a Sweet 16 loss to Kansas State. While the singular game was unfortunate, the season can still be considered a success.
Now, the team has moved into offseason, which means roster construction mode. Michigan State is in an interesting spot: It has a blend of returning players and a top freshman class coming in.
It appears Joey Hauser has decided to move on, as expected, but three more decisions must be made before Michigan State can start constructing its 2023-24 roster:
Tyson Walker
Dylan Buell/Getty Images
Tyson Walker had a breakout season in the green and white, averaging over 14 points per game. Thanks to COVID-19, Walker has an additional year of eligibility remaining, if he chooses to use it.
There is no indication whether Walker is leaning toward returning or staying.
Malik Hall
Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Malik Hall is in the same boat as Walker: He has a fifth year of eligibility if he chooses to use it. Much like Walker, there is no indication whether Hall is staying or leaving. However, speculation abounds that Hall could be favoring one more year due to the tough season he had with injuries and circumstances.
Pierre Brooks
Joseph Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports
Pierre Brooks is not in a situation where he is out of eligibility, but there has been plenty of speculation whether Brooks will be in East Lansing next season. Brooks did not play in any of the three NCAA Tournament games for Michigan State, and his minutes diminished exponentially in Big Ten play. A transfer could be in play for the MSU wing.
UPDATE: Brooks has entered the NCAA transfer portal (3/29)
Analysis
While Walker is one of the anticipated decisions for Spartan fans, it may not be the most important decision for the roster construction. MSU is in a good spot with Hoggard, Akins, Holloman and Fears at the guard. Walker is a bonus.
As for Hall and Brooks, their impact on the roster is much more important. If one, or both, decided to leave, the Spartans would need to dip into the portal to add small/power forward depth.
Without Hall, Xavier Booker would be the only power forward on the roster though Coen Carr could spell others in the position. Relying on two true freshman may not be the best option for MSU at power forward.
With Brooks gone, only Carr and Gehrig Normand would be at the small forward position, with help from Akins.
Hall and Brooks decisions are very important for the route Michigan State takes this offseason in their roster construction.
