Michigan State had a strong 2025-26 season despite ending its NCAA Tournament run with a loss to UConn in the Sweet 16. That meant another Tom Izzo-coached team remained among the Division I elites this past season, even without the same level of hype as other programs at the start of the season.
It also means that a lot will be expected of his team entering the 2026-27 men’s college basketball season, as the Spartans look to extend their NCAA Tournament streak to 29 straight appearances and contend for their third national title (and first since 2000).
2 Players Michigan State Head Coach Tom Izzo Should Pursue in the Transfer Portal
This year’s transfer portal period will be a critical moment for Izzo, as he is likely to lose at least five players to graduation, the portal, and the NBA Draft. Three of those players were starters in the 2025-26 campaign: Jaxon Kohler, Carson Cooper, and Jeremy Fears.
He may have replacements among his underclassmen and his four high school recruits, but their presence on the court was invaluable and irreplaceable.
With this in mind, here are two players the legendary coach should target in the transfer portal.
Aiden Sherrell, Alabama
Since entering the transfer portal, Aiden Sherrell has become a sought-after commodity among programs seeking an effective big man who can perform well on both sides of the court. Under Nate Oats, he developed into a reliable post presence for the Crimson Tide, averaging 11.1 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game this past season.
However, he decided to part ways with Alabama in hopes of getting more playing time to showcase his overall skill set as he tries to break into the consciousness of NBA scouts who prefer taking a big man in the 2027 or 2028 NBA Draft. Sherrell could be a very good pickup for Izzo if the 6’10” forward returns to his home state.
The veteran Spartans head coach could increase Sherrell’s minutes, develop his skills in the paint, and position him to be a key contributor next season.
Eric Reibe, UConn
Reibe went from being a former McDonald’s All-American to a backup to Tarris Reed Jr. at UConn. The 7’1″ German played 40 games for the Huskies, averaging 5.9 points and 3.3 rebounds in 13.8 minutes.
He shot 65.8% from the field but made only 52.1% of his free throws. Reibe had an opportunity to start under UConn head coach Dan Hurley, and he did not disappoint. He started in five games while Reed was sidelined, averaging 12.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game.
Izzo can use Reibe’s length and championship experience to start at center if the German player ends up at Michigan State next season.
