Michigan State basketball fans received shocking news this week as junior guard and fan-favorite Tre Holloman announced his transfer from MSU to a Big Ten rival. The move not only shakes up the Spartans’ backcourt rotation for the upcoming season but also marks a rare loss for longtime head coach Tom Izzo, who is widely respected for developing and retaining talent. Making matters more dramatic, Holloman is not just leaving East Lansing — he’s heading to the Wolfpack, a conference foe that will now gain a battle-tested leader with high-level experience.
Holloman, known for his grit, defensive tenacity, and high basketball IQ, quickly became a favorite among the Spartan faithful. Though not always a leading scorer, his hustle, poise under pressure, and leadership on and off the court made him an integral part of Izzo’s system. His transfer decision comes as a surprise given his close relationship with the coaching staff and the strong chemistry he developed with teammates. However, sources close to the program suggest Holloman was seeking a larger offensive role — one he believes he’ll get with the Wolfpack.
In a heartfelt message on social media, Holloman thanked Michigan State fans, Coach Izzo, and his teammates for their support throughout his time in East Lansing. “MSU will always be home,” he wrote, “but it’s time for the next chapter in my journey. Thank you, Spartan Nation, for everything.”
While losing Holloman is a blow to MSU’s depth and veteran leadership, the Spartans are not without reinforcements. The team recently secured a commitment from a highly touted five-star recruit, who is expected to make an immediate impact in the backcourt. Though still unproven at the college level, the newcomer brings elite athleticism, scoring ability, and playmaking skills — a strong addition to an already competitive roster.
Meanwhile, Holloman’s new home with the Wolfpack adds intrigue to the upcoming Big Ten season. With conference realignments and growing rivalries, his transfer will be one to watch — especially when the Spartans and Wolfpack face off. Fans will no doubt have mixed emotions seeing Holloman in a different uniform, but many are already wishing him well, recognizing his contributions to the program.
Coach Tom Izzo addressed the media following the announcement, expressing both support and disappointment. “Tre gave us everything he had. He’s a great kid, and I wish him nothing but the best,” Izzo said. “You never want to lose a guy like him, but that’s the reality of today’s game. We move forward.”
As college basketball continues to evolve with the transfer portal and NIL opportunities, changes like these are becoming the norm. Still, Tre Holloman’s departure hits differently for Spartan fans — a reminder of the emotional weight tied to players who leave it all on the court. Whether he finds the spotlight he’s looking for remains to be seen, but his legacy at MSU is secure.
