The Michigan Wolverines and Michigan State Spartans are two of the nation’s most storied college basketball programs. The Wolverines, founded in 1909, have won only one national title in that time. However, they have 15 big ten titles in that span. Current head coach Juwan Howard has amassed a 79-48 record in four seasons with the Wolverines but is currently on the hot seat for the underwhelming performance of his team in 2022.
On the rival end, Michigan State basketball was founded in 1898 and has won two championships and 16 big ten titles in that span. Spartan head coach Tom Izzo has been with the program for 28 seasons, amassing a 687-280 record. This article will look at the current state of these two storied programs and what the 2023 season holds.
2023 Michigan Wolverine preview
The 2023 Wolverine Hoops team will look much different than the 2022 team. Guards Jett Howard and Kobe Bufkin have both declared for the 2023 NBA draft and are both expected to be drafted. Star center Hunter Dickinson entered the transfer portal but still has a chance to come back to the Wolverines in 2023. Forward Isaiah Barnes has also decided to enter the transfer portal.
In light of these departures, Juwan Howard is always looking to the transfer portal and recruiting trail for players. Former North Carolina guard Caleb Love, who was in the portal, committed to play for the Wolverines in 2023. Also a portal addition, Alabama guard Nimari Burnett will be a great addition to the team. Additionally, Tray Jackson will provide bench depth as a forward thanks to his transfer from Seton Hall.
On the college basketball recruiting trail, Howard has had his problems. He only has a single 2023 recruit and that is four-star guard George Washington the Third. He will also come in and provide bench depth in 2023.
Projected Michigan Wolverines starting 5
- PG-Dug Mcdaniel
- SG-Caleb Love
- SF-Nimari Burnett
- PF-Tarris Reed
- C- Hunter Dickinson (I believe he has a real chance to return)
2023 Michigan State Spartans preview
Coming off an NCAA tournament appearance with a Sweet 16 loss, Tom Izzo and his Michigan State Spartans look to have another successful season in 2023. In fact, they might even be better. With star guard Tyson Walker announcing his return, this Spartan team retains experience.
Tom Izzo’s 2023 recruiting class is ranked third nationally and will be an instant impact class. Five-star Center Xavier Booker will be an immediate starter for this team. Fellow five-star recruit Guard Jeremy Fears will also come in to compete with current starter A.J. Hoggard.
Four-star recruits Coen Carr and Gehrig Normand. Carr and Normand are both expected to come off the bench to begin their spartan career. However, they will most definitely make an impact regardless.
Michigan State Spartans starting 5
- A.J Hoggard
- Tyson Walker
- Jaden Akins
- Carson Cooper
- Xavier Booker
___
For more from the author Charles Bolone, follow him out on Twitter here: @cbolone
Tweet: @WoodwoodSports or comment on your favorite social media platform!
The Woodward Sports Shop has ALL NEW Apparel – check it out here!
Photo Credit: © Lansing State Journal
