Michigan State Basketball: 5 realistic expectations for 2018-19 season

NEW YORK, NY - MARCH 03: Cassius Winston #5 of the Michigan State Spartans reacts in the second half against the Michigan Wolverines during semifinals of the Big 10 Basketball Tournament at Madison Square Garden on March 3, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images) /

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DETROIT, MI – MARCH 18: Xavier Tillman #23 of the Michigan State Spartans passes the ball during the second half against the Syracuse Orange in the second round of the 2018 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Little Caesars Arena on March 18, 2018 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /

4. Xavier Tillman becomes All-Big Ten player

This is one of my bolder expectations, but if you paid attention to Xavier Tillman’s progression throughout his freshman season, you’d realize it’s not as crazy as you might think.

No, I’m not saying Tillman is going to be a first-team All-Big Ten selection, but rather he’ll make one of the three teams or even honorable mention. This kid is just far too talented and he’ll have a much larger role in 2018-19 to miss out on All-Big Ten honors.

Tillman could realistically play 20 minutes per game during his sophomore year, which would more than double what he averaged (8.7 minutes) as a freshman — and he deserves it.

The soon-to-be sophomore averaged just 2.8 points and 2.6 rebounds with 0.7 blocks but he was a major spark off the bench. Imagine what he could bring to the table with a bigger opportunity.

Not only can Tillman score close to the basket and defend, but he’s surprisingly athletic for his size, runs the floor well and is a strong passer with a high basketball IQ. Tillman will have a breakout season.

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