Following the conclusion of the 2026 NCAA Tournament, the Michigan State Spartans are evaluating key personnel for the upcoming season.. Several roster members face critical developmental tasks to maintain the program's competitive edge under Coach Tom Izzo.

Coen Carr's 27.6% three-point mark and NBA aspirations

The modern era of college basketball increasingly demands that high-level athletes possess reliable perimeter shooting to remain viable for professional play. This trend is particularly relevant for Michigan State's Coen Carr, whose elite athleticism makes him a high-ceiling prospect for the 2027 NBA Draft. While his physical tools are undeniable, his shooting consistency remains a primary concern for scouts.

According to the report, Carr increased his scoring from 8.1 to 12.0 points per game last season, but his 27.6% three-point accuracy remains a significant hurdle. Although he increased his volume to 2.2 attempts per contest, he must refine his perimeter game to match the versatility seen in NBA-caliber wings like the Pistons' Ausar Thompson. Additionally, while his mid-range form has improved, the Spartans will need him to turn those occasional off-the-dribble jumpers into a consistent offensive weapon.

Kaleb Glenn's return from a missed 2025-26 season

Kaleb Glenn is expected to provide a vital boost to the Spartans' perimeter game following his transfer from Florida Atlantic. The report notes that Glenn, a 4-star prospect who was ranked 85th overall in the class of 2023, is returning to action after missing the entire 2025-26 season due to a knee injury. Before arriving at Michigan State,Glenn spent time at Louisville and showed significant promise with the Owls.

During his tenure at FAU, Glenn demonstrated impressive efficiency, shooting 41.0% from three-point range and 61.3% on two-point attempts. His ability to provide spacing will be a cornerstone of the Spartans' offensive strategy, provided his health holds up after his lengthy absence from the court.

Addressing the offensive gap for Cam Ward and Jesse McCulloch

Improving offensive efficiency is a mandatory requirement for several players currently in the Michigan State rotation. Cam Ward, who averaged 5.1 points and 4.2 rebounds per game, finished last season with an offensive box plus/minus of -0.5. While Ward is valued for his high motor and defensive presence, he must develop more sophisticated scoring moves, such as a better jump hook and improved free-throw shooting, which sat at 51.0% last season.

Similarly, the 6-foot-11 Jesse McCulloch must find ways to increase his impact on the glass to justify his place in the rotation.. Despite his significant size,McCulloch recorded only 7.0 rebounds per 40 minutes last season, a figure that lagged behind other non-guard players on the roster . Rebounding will be the most critical metric for McCulloch as he attempts to regain the momentum he lost when he was phased out of the rotation in late February and March.

Will the Spartans' perimeter shooting stabilize in 2027?

Several variables remain unverified as the Spartans prepare for their next campaign.. It is unclear if Kaleb Glenn's career 62.9% free-throw shooting will hinder his overall efficiency in high-pressure situations, or if Jesse McCulloch can successfully reintegrate into the rotation after his recent absence. Furthermore, the team must determine if the offensive development of Cam Ward will be sufficient to offset the scoring gaps left by departing players.