EAST LANSING, Mich. — Michigan State University’s men’s basketball programme faces a major early setback ahead of the 2025–26 season as transfer forward Kaleb Glenn is ruled out with a season-ending knee injury. Glenn, who joined the Spartans from Florida Atlantic University earlier this summer, suffers a torn patellar tendon in his right knee sustained during a non-contact workout on Monday.

The 6-foot-6 forward was expected to play a key role in Michigan State’s rotation, bringing athleticism, shooting ability and experience to a roster undergoing significant transition. His injury not only removes a promising talent from the court but also presents a considerable challenge for Head Coach Tom Izzo’s team as preparations begin for the new campaign.

Surgery and Expected Recovery

Glenn is scheduled to undergo surgery on Thursday to repair the tendon. The rehabilitation process for such an injury typically spans several months, ruling out any possibility of participation this season. With two years of NCAA eligibility remaining, Glenn is expected to take a medical redshirt, preserving a year of play once he returns to full fitness.

“It’s awful that this happened just a couple of weeks after he got here,” said Coach Izzo. “I feel terrible for Kaleb and for his family, but we will be with them throughout this process. We have really enjoyed having him and his family as part of our programme. We’re going to do everything that we can to support him and get him back on the floor.”

Transfer Expectations and Previous Performance

Glenn arrived at Michigan State as a sought-after transfer who had shown significant development at FAU during the 2024–25 season. He averaged 12.6 points and 4.8 rebounds per game and impressed with a 41 percent shooting rate from three-point range. His performance marked him as a reliable scorer and perimeter threat — a valuable asset for a Michigan State team that lost multiple players to the professional ranks and the transfer portal this offseason.

Among those who departed were Jaden Akins, Tre Holloman, and Xavier Booker, leaving gaps in the wing and guard positions. Glenn’s recruitment was intended to address this shortfall, and his injury now reopens questions around depth and rotation in key areas.

Reassessing the Roster

Glenn’s absence is likely to prompt changes to the Spartans’ projected lineup, as Coach Izzo and his staff explore how best to compensate for the loss. One possibility is greater reliance on returning players such as sophomore forward Coen Carr and senior Jaxon Kohler. Both offer physicality and rebounding ability, although neither is known for perimeter shooting — an area where Glenn was expected to contribute significantly.

Michigan State’s incoming freshman class, including forwards Cam Ward and Jordan Scott, may also be called upon earlier than expected. While talented, both players lack experience at the Big Ten level and will need time to adjust to the demands of collegiate play.

Given these circumstances, the coaching staff may also look externally for solutions. While the transfer portal has largely quieted, several players remain available. Among those potentially on Michigan State’s radar are Keonte Jones, a 6-foot-6 forward from Cal State Northridge, and Mustapha Amzil, a 6-foot-9 forward from New Mexico. Either could provide immediate support, though their availability and fit with the programme remain to be assessed.

Broader Implications

The injury comes at a time when Michigan State was already facing scrutiny for limited movement in the transfer market. According to national rankings, the Spartans ranked 62nd in portal activity this offseason — the third-lowest among Big Ten programmes. Glenn was their only transfer addition, making his absence particularly impactful.

Despite the setback, Michigan State remains committed to building around its existing core and maximising development within its current roster. Coach Izzo, entering his 31st season at the helm, continues to emphasise resilience and team cohesion.

“We’re going to do everything that we can to support him,” Izzo repeated, underscoring the programme’s commitment to Glenn during his recovery process.

Looking Forward

Kaleb Glenn’s injury alters the immediate outlook for the Spartans, but it also presents an opportunity for growth among younger players and for the coaching staff to explore alternative strategies. While the loss is significant, the programme’s longstanding culture of adaptability and player development remains intact.

Glenn will undergo his operation this week and begin his rehabilitation with full support from the university’s medical and athletic staff. The basketball community, both within and outside Michigan State, will follow his progress closely as he works toward a return in 2026.