How Jordan Scott’s Rise Stabilizes Spartans’ Backcourt
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Jordan Scott was given the starting job at shooting guard after an impactful performance against in-state rival Michigan. While he did not start against the Wolverines, Scott entered the game to open the second half as Michigan State adjusted its rotation, sending Divine Ugochukwu to the bench. Against Michigan, Scott made his presence felt with 10 points, two steals, and a block.
That performance earned Scott his first career start against Minnesota. Although the Spartans fell on the road, Scott was the lone bright spot in the loss. He finished second on the team in scoring with 15 points on 5-of-8 shooting from the field and 3-of-4 from three-point range.
While Scott’s offensive production stood out against both Michigan and Minnesota, his defensive impact was even more impressive. Entering Michigan State’s matchup against Illinois, Scott was tasked with guarding Keaton Wagler — widely considered the best freshman in the Big Ten and one of the top freshmen in the country.
Scott vs. Wagler
Heading into Saturday’s game, Michigan State was on the brink of a third straight loss, while Illinois rode a 12-game winning streak. Prior to facing the Spartans, Wagler was averaging a team-high 17.9 points per game while shooting 48% from the field and 44% from beyond the arc.
Although Wagler finished with 16 points, Scott delivered a defensive masterclass. He limited Wagler to 2-of-16 shooting from the field and 2-of-8 from three-point range, consistently staying attached and forcing difficult looks. Scott also contributed offensively, scoring 10 points on 3-of-6 shooting from the field and 1-of-4 from three, including several timely baskets.
Scott Moving Forward
Against Minnesota, backup point guard Divine Ugochukwu suffered a season-ending foot injury, leaving Michigan State thin in the backcourt. With Ugochukwu sidelined, Jeremy Fears will be asked to shoulder an even heavier workload, making reliable two-way play alongside him a necessity.
Jordan Scott is proving he can be that player. His shooting provides needed spacing, but his defense may be the most valuable part of his game. If his performance against Wagler is any indication, Scott has earned the trust of the coaching staff — and a permanent place in Michigan State’s rotation.
With Michigan State navigating injuries and inconsistency, Jordan Scott’s emergence has come at the perfect time. His ability to impact the game without needing the ball, combined with his willingness to take on elite defensive assignments, gives the Spartans a dependable presence in the backcourt. As the season progresses, Scott looks less like a temporary solution and more like a foundational piece moving forward.
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Luke Joseph is a graduate of Michigan State University with a degree in journalism. Drawing on his extensive knowledge of sports and commitment to storytelling, he serves as a general sports reporter On SI, covering the NFL and college athletics with insight and expertise.