Michigan State forward Jaxon Kohler could become a name to follow after the recent court ruling granting an additional year of eligibility to eligible Class of 2022 athletes.
According to Jon Rothstein of CBS Sports, Kohler plans to explore a return to college for a fifth season and is receiving interest from Kentucky, Kansas, and BYU, while a return to Michigan State also remains a possibility.
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The 6-foot-10, 245-pound forward has spent all four years of his collegiate career with the Spartans and is coming off the best season of his career. Kohler averaged 12.5 points and 8.9 rebounds per game, developing into one of the Big Ten’s most productive frontcourt players.
One of the biggest areas of growth in his game has been his perimeter shooting. After averaging just 1.4 3-point attempts per game as a junior, Kohler expanded his range this past season, attempting 4.3 3s per game while knocking down 38.9% from beyond the arc. That ability to stretch the floor could make him an excellent fit in Mark Pope’s offensive system.
Kohler also showcased his talent against Kentucky in the State Farm Champions Classic, finishing with 20 points on 8-of-12 shooting, including 2-for-2 from 3-point range, while adding five rebounds, two assists, and one block in Michigan State’s 83-66 victory.
If Kentucky ultimately pursues Kohler, he could fill a role similar to the one Andrew Carr played under Pope. Carr, a 6-foot-9 forward, averaged 10.3 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.7 assists while providing floor spacing and versatility in his lone season with the Wildcats.
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With Kentucky still having a roster spot available, Kohler’s size, rebounding, and improved 3-point shooting could make him a player worth monitoring as Pope looks to finalize his roster.
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