It was a challenging offseason for Tom Izzo and the Michigan State Spartans. The team saw a significant shake-up with Jase Richardson departing after just one season, and key players like Xavier Booker, Tre Holloman, and Gehrig Normand entering the transfer portal.
To add to their woes, incoming transfer Kaleb Glenn from FAU was sidelined with a season-ending injury, leaving the Spartans shorthanded from the start. The injury bug didn’t stop there; Divine Ugochukwu also suffered a foot injury mid-Big Ten season, and despite nearing a return for the NCAA Tournament, Izzo opted to keep him out.
Despite these setbacks, Michigan State proved resilient. Under Izzo’s expert guidance, the team finished with an impressive 27-8 record and made it to the Sweet 16. This performance is a testament to Izzo’s coaching prowess, navigating a season that could have easily derailed a lesser team.
Reflecting on how things unfolded, one can’t help but wonder how the season might have looked if players like Booker and Holloman had stayed. Let’s take a closer look at how these former Spartans fared with their new teams.
Tre Holloman, G, NC State
2025-26 stats: 9.2 points, 2.1 assists, 1.8 rebounds, 42.1% FG, 40.2% 3FG in 25.6 minutes
Holloman’s transfer was a major surprise for Michigan State fans. After three solid seasons, he left for NC State, hoping for a fresh start under Will Wade.
However, the move didn’t pan out as expected. Holloman’s role didn’t change much, and his numbers remained similar to his time as a Spartan.
NC State’s season ended in disappointment with a First Four exit against Texas, and Wade’s subsequent departure to LSU left Holloman’s decision looking questionable in hindsight.
Xavier Booker, PF, UCLA
2025-26 stats: 7.3 points, 3.5 rebounds, 1.2 blocks, 54.7% FG, 43.3% 3FG in 20.1 minutes
Booker’s transfer to UCLA was somewhat anticipated after two quiet years at Michigan State. Under Mick Cronin, Booker found his stride, starting 27 games and showing significant improvement, especially from beyond the arc. Despite a second-round NCAA Tournament exit to UConn, Booker shone with averages of 14 points and 6.5 rebounds, demonstrating his growth and potential.
Gehrig Normand, G, Santa Clara
2025-26 stats: Did not play
Normand’s transfer to Santa Clara wasn’t a shock, given his limited playtime at Michigan State. Unfortunately, an injury kept him off the court this season, marking his second missed season in three years. While Santa Clara made it to the NCAA Tournament, losing to Kentucky in overtime, Normand will be aiming for a comeback and a significant role next year.
In the face of adversity, Michigan State and Izzo showcased resilience and adaptability, qualities that continue to define their legacy in college basketball.