Mississippi State’s 2017–2018 Roster
Ben Howland will be going into his third year as Mississippi State’s head basketball coach, and like his previous three stops, the three plan seems to be in full swing — as this team is projected to be vastly improved over last season.
Many expect this team to have postseason aspirations, and for the record things haven’t looked this impressive before a season, since the Stansbury era. This roster will not look terribly different, although it will lose I.J. Ready, who graduated last season.
The starting lineup for this team will look noticeably similar to last season, as the backcourt returns PG Lamar Peters, SG Quinndary Weatherspoon — who is projected to be ready to go by the beginning of the season — and to round out the wing, SF Mario Kegler will be the 3 to start the season. As for others who will see playing time, freshman 5-star guard Nick Weatherspoon will be expected to produce, as well as sophomore sharpshooter Tyson Carter and junior Xavian Stapelton, who was a much-needed spark off the bench last year for the Bulldogs.
The frontcourt should also remain relatively similar although there could be some competition for the 5 spot. Projections show that junior Aric Holman will be the 4. His ability to space the floor and hit shots will be key next season. The competition between sophomore Schnider Herard and Abdul Ado will be an extremely interesting battle, as many have expressed astonishment of Ado’s natural ability. When the season begins in October, the center will likely be Schnider Herard, but Abdul Ado may eventually have an opportunity to become the starter as the season progresses.
Writing this article made me realize the absolute raw talent this team will be loaded with next season, as the roster is filled with 4 & 5 star recruits and proven play-makers. The future is looking nothing but bright for the Basketball Bulldogs!
