Freshman's Surprise Emergence Boosts MSU's Izzo

Michigan State's Jordan Scott has become an unexpected key player for the Spartans this season.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Michigan State freshman Jordan Scott has emerged as a surprise contributor for the Spartans this season, taking on an important starting role and playing a key role in some of MSU's biggest wins. Head coach Tom Izzo admits he didn't expect Scott to have this much of an impact so quickly, but the young player's defense, hustle, and improved shooting have made him a valuable asset for the team.

Why it matters

Scott's rapid development has been crucial for Michigan State, who are looking to make a deep run in the NCAA tournament. His defensive abilities and energy off the bench have provided a spark, and his improved shooting has made him a more well-rounded threat. Izzo's ability to develop young talent like Scott is a big part of what has made the Spartans a perennial powerhouse in college basketball.

The details

Scott has recently taken over a starting role for the Spartans and has made the most of the opportunity. His defense on Illinois' star player Keaton Wagler, holding him to just 2-of-16 shooting, was a key factor in Michigan State's victory over the then-5th ranked Fighting Illini. Izzo says he didn't anticipate Scott having this kind of immediate impact, as the freshman's shooting, toughness, and aggressiveness have all improved significantly since the start of the season.

  • Scott was moved into the starting lineup in the 23rd game of the season.
  • Before New Year's, Scott was shooting just 32.6% from the field and 25.8% from 3-point range.
  • Since the start of the new year, Scott has shot 48.2% from the field and 40% from 3-point range.

The players

Jordan Scott

A freshman forward for the Michigan State Spartans who has emerged as a key contributor, taking on an important starting role and playing strong defense while also improving his shooting.

Tom Izzo

The head coach of the Michigan State Spartans, who admits he didn't expect Scott to have this much of an immediate impact but has been impressed by the freshman's development.

Keaton Wagler

The star player for the Illinois Fighting Illini, who Scott was tasked with defending and held to just 2-of-16 shooting in a key win for Michigan State.

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What they’re saying

“He's been a pleasant surprise. You say that and somebody else will say, 'Well, you didn't think he'd be good when you recruited him.' It's not that at all. I thought he'd be really good when we recruited him. But I thought it would take a little longer.”

— Tom Izzo, Head Coach, Michigan State Spartans (si.com)

“I thought he could shoot it well; I thought he was a very solid player. He's been way tougher, way stronger, way more aggressive [than I thought he'd be]. His sense of urgency, both on defense and going to the boards, has been phenomenal, and now his shot is getting better and better and better.”

— Tom Izzo, Head Coach, Michigan State Spartans (si.com)

“Some of the times I didn't start him because I didn't want him to get nervous when we're on a winning streak, and all of a sudden, [we lose]. I don't think anything bothers him. It's kind of nice: I get more nervous than he gets.”

— Tom Izzo, Head Coach, Michigan State Spartans (si.com)

What’s next

Michigan State will look to continue leaning on Jordan Scott's contributions as they push for a deep NCAA tournament run.

The takeaway

Tom Izzo's ability to develop young talent like Jordan Scott has been a key factor in Michigan State's sustained success as a college basketball powerhouse. Scott's rapid emergence as an impact player shows the Spartans' coaching staff can get the most out of their players, even when they aren't expected to contribute right away.