Michigan State Basketball Faces Offseason Changes

Key departures and arrivals will shape Spartans' future after Sweet 16 exit

Mar. 29, 2026 at 8:12pm

Michigan State's men's basketball team saw its season end in the Sweet 16 with a loss to UConn. The Spartans finished the year 27-8 with several notable wins, but now turn their attention to the offseason as they deal with key roster changes.

Why it matters

Michigan State is a perennial NCAA Tournament contender, so any offseason roster moves can significantly impact the team's outlook for the next season. How the Spartans handle departures and new arrivals will be crucial to their chances of returning to the Big Dance.

The details

The Spartans are losing several key players, including starting guard Jaden Akins, who is entering the NBA Draft. However, they are also bringing in a highly-touted recruiting class, including 5-star point guard Cason Wallace. Head coach Tom Izzo will need to blend the new talent with the returning players to keep Michigan State competitive in the Big Ten.

  • Michigan State's season ended on March 24, 2026 with a Sweet 16 loss to UConn.
  • The NBA Draft declaration deadline is in late April each year.

The players

Jaden Akins

Michigan State's starting guard who is entering the 2026 NBA Draft.

Cason Wallace

A 5-star point guard recruit who is part of Michigan State's incoming freshman class.

Tom Izzo

The longtime head coach of the Michigan State men's basketball team.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“That's something I want to do, just helping everybody, and all the new guys that come in, just helping,”

— Jaden Akins, Michigan State Guard

What’s next

The Spartans will look to finalize their roster in the coming weeks as the NBA Draft deadline approaches. They will also continue recruiting efforts to build on their strong incoming class.

The takeaway

Michigan State faces some key personnel changes this offseason, but the program's track record under Tom Izzo suggests they will find a way to remain competitive in the Big Ten and make another NCAA Tournament appearance.