Photo: Junfu Han ~ USA TODAY NETWORK
EAST LANSING ~ Michigan State has kicked off the season with a statement. At 8-1, the Spartans have already knocked off three ranked teams, Arkansas, Kentucky and North Carolina, proving they belong in the national conversation. Even their lone loss to Duke showed fight, and Tom Izzo’s group looks like a team built for March. They’ve got depth, they’ve got toughness, and they’ve got a point guard who’s changing the game.
That point guard is sophomore Jeremy Fears Jr., and right now, he’s leading the entire NCAA in assists, early 10 a night. His vision and poise have turned Michigan State into one of the most unselfish teams in college basketball. When Fears has the ball, good things happen, whether it’s a lob to the bigs or a kick-out to a shooter. He’s not just running the offense; he’s setting the tone for everything this team does.
PODCAST
December 8, 2025 ~ Michigan State University Head Basketball Coach Tom Izzo and WJR’s Senior Sports Analyst Steve Courtney join Chris and Jamie to recap MSU’s loss to Duke.
(CONTINUED) Still, it’s not all perfect. The Spartans have shown they can beat anyone, but their offense can go cold, especially from the perimeter. Against Duke, that weakness was glaring. Defense and rebounding have carried them so far, but as Big Ten play heats up, they’ll need more scoring balance. Izzo knows grit alone won’t win championships, someone has to hit shots.
And that brings us to the biggest question: Who’s going to lock down the shooting guard spot? Sophomore guard Kur Teng and senior transfer guard Trey Fort have both had moments, but neither has fully claimed it. They both offer shooting and have had games where that shooting shows, but haven’t been consistent. For Michigan State to hit its ceiling, one of them, or both, needs to step up. Until then, it’s a storyline worth watching as the season unfolds.
