LAST DANCE?: Michigan State basketball READY for run with Jeremy Fears | Is MSU Big Ten's best?
The return of Jeremy Fears to Michigan State basketball feels like a final, emotional chapter in a storied era, with the Spartans poised for a potential deep run in the Big Ten. Hosts Matt Sheehan and Dave Klein reflect on the bittersweet nature of Fears' decision to return for one last season, framing it as 'The Last Dance' for a generation of players and coach Tom Izzo, who remains a force at 71. Despite uncertainty about Izzo's future and the fleeting window for Fears’ NBA prospects, the roster now features elite talent: a returning All-American guard, a high-upside freshman center in Ethan Taylor, and a strong supporting cast. The duo debates whether Michigan State truly belongs in the Big Ten’s top tier alongside Illinois and Michigan, ultimately agreeing that the three are closely matched in talent and potential. They also highlight the intrigue around Taylor’s development after a rocky senior year at Link Academy, and the promise of a deep frontcourt rotation. As the season approaches, the podcast captures a rare moment of optimism — not just for a team, but for a fanbase that’s been through years of rebuilding and waiting.
Jeremy Fears' return is likely his final season, making it a 'last dance' for a generation of Spartans.
Michigan State is now a top-tier Big Ten contender alongside Illinois and Michigan, with no clear separation in talent.
Ethan Taylor’s potential is high despite a disappointing senior year — his physical tools and Team USA call-up signal elite upside.
The frontcourt rotation with Bonk, McCullough, and Taylor could feature a 7-foot tandem if Taylor develops quickly.
Purdue is undervalued in the Big Ten projections and could be a dark horse with Matt Painter’s leadership.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Welcome to Locked On Spartans
Introduction to the podcast, promotion of the Everydayer Club, and a teaser of the season’s emotional stakes.
The Last Dance for Jeremy Fears
“This really does feel like it's going to be it for Jeremy Fears. Certainly Cohen Carr as well. Izzo is 71, going to be 72 during the season. I want to enjoy next year, but I also don't want to sound like an alarmist when I say it really feels like the last dance in the here and now.”
The Window for Michigan State
Discussion on whether the current roster represents a rare opportunity for a deep run, given the program’s recruiting cycle and player development timeline.
Fixing Jeremy Fears: The One Trait That Could Make Him NBA-Ready
“If he could just shoot 35% and up with consistent volume from deep, it just opens up the rest of the roster in his entire game.”
Ethan Taylor: From Link Academy to Team USA
“I've never been happier to hear a kid didn't have like a great time in his senior year than I was when he's kind of letting on that. Yeah, the vibe is way different here.”
“This really does feel like it's going to be it for Jeremy Fears. Certainly Cohen Carr as well. Izzo is 71, going to be 72 during the season. I want to enjoy next year, but I also don't want to sound like an alarmist when I say it really feels like the last dance in the here and now.”
“I've never been happier to hear a kid didn't have like a great time in his senior year than I was when he's kind of letting on that. Yeah, the vibe is way different here.”
“I mean, I think that the easy answer is like if he could just shoot 35 and up with consistent volume from deep, it just opens up the rest of the roster in his entire game.”
Hosts
Jeremy Fears
person
Ethan Taylor
person
Dave Klein
person
Matt Sheehan
person
Tom Izzo
person
Team USA U18
organization
Purdue
organization
Josiah Jervis
person
U18 FIBA Americas Cup
other
Cohen Carr
person
2026-06-16 KSR - Hour 1
42m • 6/16/2026
06/10/26 Hour 1: Kyle Tausk from Illini Inquirer tells us why Lincoln Williams was perfect timing, reviews Quintin Coleman's Team USA Performance; Tolono Unity QB Dane Eisenmenger to Illinois
54m • 6/10/2026
SHOCKWAVE: Michigan State football recruiting HEATS UP with Deontay Malone, Gideon Gash visit
27m • 6/1/2026
Start discovering podcast insights today
Start with a 7-day trial and explore a growing catalog of popular podcasts. No credit card required.
No credit card required • 7-day trial • Cancel anytime

