Michigan State University’s men’s basketball team is facing an unusual identity crisis heading into the 2025-26 season. Once hailed for its signature sharpshooters and perimeter play, the Spartans are now drawing national attention not for a returning All-American or a hot recruit—but for what’s missing: a reliable three-point threat.
According to recent analysis published by Sports Illustrated, MSU is experiencing a “position shift,” as veteran players and new transfers emphasize interior scoring and midrange efficiency over long-range shooting. The shift has raised questions among Big Ten analysts about whether the Spartans can remain competitive in a conference increasingly dominated by stretch-fours and high-volume shooting guards.
“They’ve always had that one guy—be it Gary Harris, Bryn Forbes, or more recently, Tyson Walker—who could drain a three under pressure,” said analyst Tony Rodriguez. “But this year, they don’t have a true sniper. And that’s a problem in today’s game.”
The concern is echoed by former Spartans assistant coach and current Big Ten Network analyst Dane Fife, who noted that MSU’s offseason strategy may indicate a philosophical adjustment under head coach Tom Izzo.
“You’re seeing more emphasis on defense, rebounding, and tempo control,” Fife said. “It’s vintage Izzo in some ways, but in today’s college game, you still need someone who can space the floor. Right now, they don’t have that guy.”
Freshman Jalen Merriweather, a 6’7” wing from Indiana, was expected to step into the shooter role, but early summer workouts have shown inconsistency. Meanwhile, returning guards like Tre Hollis and Malik Cartwright are better known for slashing and playmaking than perimeter shooting.
Izzo, entering his 30th season, acknowledged the shift but downplayed concerns.
“We’ve got guys who can shoot,” Izzo said at a summer media event. “What we’re working on now is confidence and consistency. Every team has its own personality. This one might be a little different, but we’ll be ready.”
With early exhibition games just weeks away, fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see whether this new-look Spartan team can find its shooting identity—or win games in spite of it.
For now, the message is clear: MSU might still be tough, but without a signature shooter, they’re playing a different kind of game.
