Xavier Booker has taken the college basketball world by storm this season, emerging as one of the most improved 3-point shooters in the nation. The former Michigan State big man, now showcasing his talents at UCLA, has seen a remarkable 18.4% increase in his 3-point shooting accuracy, according to CBB Analytics. This leap places him at the top of the list for year-over-year improvement among players with at least 40 attempts.
Booker's transformation is a testament to his hard work and determination. Shooting nearly 42% from beyond the arc, he's become a key asset for the Bruins.
It's a performance that leaves Spartan fans pondering what might have been if he'd stayed in East Lansing, where consistent shooting is sorely needed. However, Booker's decision to seek a fresh start at UCLA seems to be paying off.
Despite not making a significant impact in his return to the Breslin Center, Booker has been instrumental in some of UCLA's biggest wins this season. His 16-point performance against No. 10 Illinois and his crucial contributions in the victory over Purdue highlight his ability to shine on the grandest stages.
Reflecting on his previous season at Michigan State, where he averaged 4.7 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 0.7 blocks in just over 12 minutes per game, Booker's growth is evident. This season, he's boosted his averages to 7.5 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks, marking him as one of the Big Ten's standout improvers.
While his journey in East Lansing didn't pan out as hoped, many Spartan fans are rooting for Booker's continued success with the Bruins-just not against their team. With his current trajectory, there's plenty of reason to believe that Booker's senior year could be even more impressive.