Michigan State fans are already looking ahead to next season after a tough Sweet 16 loss to UConn. Despite the setback, Tom Izzo is as determined as ever, setting his sights on another Final Four run and potentially a second national title.
With Jaxon Kohler and Carson Cooper moving on, Izzo is prioritizing adding a new center through the transfer portal. Keeping the current roster intact is also on his agenda, and while he’s optimistic about retaining his players, nothing is set in stone. The focus now is on finding the right big man, and Georgia’s Somto Cyril might just be the perfect fit.
Cyril, who recently entered the transfer portal, spent the last two seasons in Athens and made a name for himself on the SEC All-Defensive team, averaging 2.2 blocks per game. His 5.4 rebounds per game show promise, though Izzo would likely encourage him to be more aggressive on the boards, similar to Kohler and Cooper.
Offensively, Cyril averaged 9.3 points per game and was highly efficient, converting over 75% of his field goal attempts. At 6-foot-11, he has the potential to become a key player for the Spartans, offering formidable rim protection and the ability to contribute 10-15 points and 8-10 rebounds each game.
While Cyril may not stretch the floor with a three-point shot, his defensive prowess would make him a standout in the Big Ten. The only challenge might be for announcers to master his full name, Somtochukwu, alongside teammate Divine Ugochukwu. But on the court, Cyril could be exactly what Izzo needs to bolster Michigan State’s lineup.