Michigan State is going to take a little extra time to gel this season compared to a year ago because there are so many new pieces on the roster, but the Spartans have some young guys who will play a key role in that and could be real glue guys moving forward.
One of them is Jordan Scott, a freshman wing from Virginia. In the exhibition opener against Bowling Green, he played just six minutes and didn’t produce much, but his energy was felt.
Against UConn, however, he proved that he belongs in the rotation.
Scott played about 15 minutes against UConn, scoring six points with four rebounds and three steals. He also shot 2-for-5 from the floor and didn’t shy away from getting his shots up. He didn’t hesitate and looked confident with the ball in his hands, drawing post-game comparisons to Max Christie by Izzo. He said that the freshman looked like he could hang and showed Christie flashes.
Anyone who watched the game would agree. While Christie was ultimately slightly underwhelming in East Lansing, it was only because he was a five-star with sky-high expectations.
Scott is a top-50 caliber prospect with a great frame for the wing and he has the motor and athleticism to make a serious impact on the team this season.
While I wouldn’t have believed it before the season started, I’m in the “Scott has earned more minutes” camp after two exhibition games. I’d even go as far as saying he could act as a two-guard (more of just a wing) in a bigger Michigan State lineup with Jeremy Fears Jr. at the point, Coen Carr on the wing, and both Carson Cooper and Jaxon Kohler in the post.
Scott can shoot, he can drive, he can rebound, and he can defend, making him a legit piece to the Big Ten title defense puzzle this season.
Buy stock now.