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Resetting Michigan State basketball's transfer center big board
TL;DR
Michigan State basketball is seeking a center through the transfer portal after losing top prospects Aiden Sherrell and Samet Yititoglu to Indiana. The coaching staff is now focusing on a new group of players for the 2026-27 season.
Key points
- Michigan State basketball is in search of a center through the transfer portal.
- Aiden Sherrell and Samet Yititoglu committed to Indiana.
- Carson Cooper needs to be replaced for the 2026-27 season.
- The coaching staff is focusing on a new group of players.
- Anton Bonke from Charlotte is among the new prospects.
Mentioned in this story
Indiana
Michigan State
Michigan State basketball has hit a bit of an impasse within their transfer portal pursuit of a center prospect. The Spartans are aiming to get a starting caliber player at the position to replace Carson Cooper. The top two options for the Spartans, Aiden Sherrell and Samet Yititoglu, both committed to Indiana, forcing MSU to turn to the next group of players on their big board.
Now, getting a center is a non negotiable for the Spartans this offseason, but the coaching staff needs to make sure that it is an impactful piece to the roster in 2026-27.
With a new board of players surfacing for the Spartans, it will be intriguing to see who the Spartans spend the most effort on recruiting. Check out the newest names on the big board:
Anton Bonke (Charlotte)
Feb 8, 2026; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Charlotte 49ers center Anton Bonke (49) handles the ball against Memphis Tigers forward Aaron Bradshaw (11) during the first half at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Wesley Hale-Imagn Images
Bonke starts off as the most obvious name on the list, considering he is fresh off of a visit to East Lansing. A 7-foot-2 big from Port Vila, Vanuatu, the Spartans have taken a massive liking to the transfer from Charlotte.
With the 49ers, he averaged 10.6 points, 8.3 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game this past season. Ranking in the 94th-percentile for block rate, as well as the 97th percentile in DReb% and OReb%, this is a big man that fits the style of play Tom Izzo wants from his team.
Aside from MSU, Bonke already visited Kansas and is considering , NC State, , Clemson, , TCU, USC and Gonzaga.
Q&A
Who are the top center prospects Michigan State basketball is pursuing?
Michigan State's top center prospects were Aiden Sherrell and Samet Yititoglu, but both have committed to Indiana.
Why does Michigan State need a new center for the 2026-27 season?
Michigan State needs a new center to replace Carson Cooper and ensure they have a starting caliber player for the upcoming season.
What is Michigan State's strategy for recruiting centers in the transfer portal?
Michigan State is now focusing on a new group of players on their big board to find an impactful center for the roster.
Who is Anton Bonke and how does he fit into Michigan State's plans?
Anton Bonke is a center from Charlotte who has surfaced on Michigan State's new big board as they look for a replacement in the transfer portal.
