Michigan State head coach Tom Izzo announced on Tuesday that he will not add any new players to the roster, even after a recent court decision that could permit certain former athletes to return for a fifth year of eligibility.
Legal Landscape Opens Door for Fifth-Year Returns
The ruling, issued by U.S. District Court Judge Charlotte N. Sweeney, extends eligibility to athletes who completed high school in 2022, granting them a fifth year under the NCAA’s “five‑for‑five” framework.
Among those affected is forward Jaxon Kohler, who recently signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the Utah Jazz and appeared in the NBA Summer League, though his professional prospects remain uncertain.
Izzo’s Roster Stands Pat
Izzo emphasized that the current Michigan State squad, which features 15 scholarship players including a transfer addition, four freshmen, three walk‑ons and three returning starters, is already complete and competitive.
He described the group as “good enough to be very good” and noted that elite status will be earned through performance on the court rather than through additional recruiting.
While acknowledging that other programs may take advantage of the eligibility extension, Izzo said Michigan State will not pursue further additions, preferring to let the existing roster determine its destiny.