Predicted finish: 10th
Previous record: 17-13, 7-9 B1G
Key returners:
G- Shay Colley: 5’9 RSJr. 12.4 PPG, 4.3 APG, 32 MPG
Newcomers:
PG- Nia Clouden 5’8 (Owing Mills, Maryland) Fr. (no. 42 on ESPN Hoopgurlz)
G- Tory Ozment, 6’1 (Buford, California) Fr.
F- Kayla Belles 6’3 (Ithaca, Michigan) Fr.
Key non-conference games:
11/28: Virginia
12/9: Oregon
Head coach: Suzy Merchant- 12th season
Suzy Merchant has been one of the more successful coaches in the B1G. During her tenure at MSU, she has failed to makethe postseason just once. Michigan State has won two regular season titles under Merchant. One fun thing to look out for this season is Merchant facing her former Spartan in Tori Jankoska, now on the Maryland staff.
Outlook:
Michigan State lost freshman guard Claire Hendrickson in October of last year and it seemed a big piece of their offense would be lost. Despite their setback last season, they managed to give teams fits, beating Maryland for the first time. They were in the middle of the pack as far as field goal percentage at 43%, but this roster has room to improve there. Incoming post player Kayla Belles can help inside. Also, getting Hendrickson back would be a great boost for the Spartans. Merchant will basically have a new team, with the upside that provides.
Best case scenario: Claire Hendrickson and Shay Colley will lead the team to a great season and they return the Spartans to the NCAA field.
Worst case scenario: Shay Colley would be left alone to carry the offense. The team will not be able to sustain the same energy and reach the WNIT.