Kohler, Cooper Duo to Be Spartans’ Key to Success Next Season

The Michigan State Spartans have seen several players, who were expected to return next season, depart. However, they have managed to retain their two primary post players, seniors Jaxon Kohler and Carson Cooper, who will play a crucial role in the team’s success for the 2025-26 season.

Following last week’s news that sophomore forward Xavier Booker would transfer to UCLA, the Spartans’ post depth became somewhat limited. Despite the lack of a transfer portal addition so far, it appears the senior duo will be leading the way in the post.

While the Spartans were primarily led by their guards in scoring last season, they struggled with having a dominant presence in the paint, which was evident during their Elite Eight loss to Auburn, even though Kohler scored 17 points. The big men combined for 12.8 points per game.

Although scoring remains a work in progress with potential for growth next season, the one area where both players excel is rebounding.

Kohler and Cooper were Michigan State’s top two rebounders last season, averaging 12.7 rebounds per game collectively, with a focus on offensive boards. Kohler led the team with 93 offensive rebounds in 37 games, while Cooper grabbed 55.

The two will be supported by incoming four-star freshman power forward Cam Ward and junior standout Coen Carr. Standing at 6-7 and 210 pounds, Ward will add strength, while Carr continues to improve offensively. Together, they form a promising group of post players for next season.

Given that the Spartans’ offense has largely relied on guard play for scoring, the focus next season may shift. Both Kohler and Cooper will enter their third seasons, mentoring younger players while being counted on for consistent scoring.

It will be intriguing to see if head coach Tom Izzo adds another impactful frontcourt player, but if not, Kohler and Cooper are expected to lead the way and log a significant amount of minutes. There is a possibility that Carr might start over Cooper, but the success of both players will remain equally vital to the team’s performance.