Michigan State basketball just squared off with Western Michigan in its final 2024-25 non-conference game. And it's time to talk about what Coen Carr brings to the floor every night.
Carr is coming off a career performance against Florida Atlantic where he scored 17 points and pulled down eight rebounds.
Tom Izzo took full notice, given the great history of players who have been up for major awards. Like Mateen Cleaves, Draymond Green, Denzel Valentine, and Cassius Winston for example.
Carr's natural athleticism would have him starting for most teams, and Izzo knows that he probably should be starting for the Spartans, but he also has given Coen full credit for what he's brigning to the table.
Izzo spoke with the media following the Spartans final practice before their tilt with the Broncos, about how Carr has made some big strides this season.
"It's really amazing that Coen has come as far as he's come," Izzo said. "He's really improved. He's improved with the ball, he's improved defensively, he's improved his body, he's improving his shot, he's improved his free throws. And he's improving his leadership. He is an energy guy."
Izzo then went on to talk about how he could be starting Carr, but his role as like a sixth-man has been huge.
"I mean, if he keeps doing it, he's going to be a sixth-man nationally of the year candidate. Just because of what he brings."
It should come as no surprise, for any of the guys coming off the Spartan bench. Look at Jase Richardson he's averaging double figure scoring from the bench. Carr is averaging nine points a night, and that can continue to go up if he goes off like he did againt FAU. Who can forget once Xavier Booker finds the switch to flip.
It's clear the Spartans might have more than one best sixth man. It would mean a lot for someone like Carr to receive that honor. I think Izzo knows what he is talking about.