Tom Izzo and Michigan State basketball open the exhibition season Friday night against the Incarnate Word Cardinals, the first of three preseason games and the night the IZZONE campout takes over Munn Field.
What To Expect: New Frontcourt Starters
With Carson Cooper signing a two-way contract with the Memphis Grizzlies, and Jaxon Kohler using his newfound fifth year to play for BYU, the Spartans will bring out a new starting frontcourt. Charlotte 49ers transfer Anton Bonke is expected to take over as starting center and looks to stretch the floor; he shot 34.2% from three on 1.1 attempts per game last season.
Sophomore Cam Ward is expected to take the starting job once the regular season starts, but will sit out against Incarnate Word with a sprained ankle that he picked up in practice. Jesse McCulloch is expected to step in for the injured Ward; it will be McCulloch’s first start as a Spartan after coming off the bench in 28 games last season.
Izzo Lineup Testing
Izzo will likely run many different lineup rotations. While the starters will still get the bulk of playing time, their shifts together on the court will likely be short. This will likely cause the Spartans to struggle offensively, giving the Cardinals a chance to keep the game competitive. It could be like the Spartans’ first exhibition game last year against Bowling Green, when they won 75-66 after scoring just 27 points in the second half…