After further discussions between Michigan State Fooball wide receiver Keon Coleman and men’s head basketball coach Tom Izzo, the two came to a mutual decision that Coleman would not join the Spartans basketball team in the 2022-23 season.
The sophomore wide receiver, who competed as a multi-athlete at Opelousas, La., Catholic High School, played a total of 10 minutes in six games for Michigan State men’s basketball last season. Coleman had five points, three steals and one rebound in that limited season, but his college basketball career is likely over.
“Keon Coleman and I spoke extensively this week and we came to a mutual decision that it would be best for him to focus on his football career and not join the basketball team at this time,” Izzo said in a released statement. “Keon has had a great football season and it is in his best interest to prepare for spring football over the next few months while also attending to his academic commitments.”
Last football season, Coleman led the Spartans in 58 receptions for 798 yards and seven touchdowns, making a significant jump between his freshman and sophomore seasons. With senior Jayden Reed moving to the 2023 NFL draft, Coleman is unquestionably Michigan State’s top wide receiver option going into next season.
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Izzo, Coleman and head coach Mel Tucker have been debating what’s best for Coleman’s future for the past few weeks. Izzo said MSU wide receiver coach Courtney Hawkins was also brought into those discussions.
While Michigan State sold Coleman for his ability to dual-sport as a Spartan during his high school recruiting, the group eventually decided that focusing on soccer was best for the talented second grader.
“I can’t thank Mel Tucker enough for his support of Keon and our basketball program,” said Coleman. “We recruited Keon into both sports together and Mel stood behind him trying to get into both programs. I love Keon and have great admiration for him, but I also want the best for him and his future. I’m glad we agreed that this was the best plan of action for the future.”
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