Michigan State basketball bolsters roster by adding Omaha transfer Frankie Fidler

After Michigan State fell well below expectations this past season, the Spartans appear to be making a more concerted effort to dip into the transfer portal to address some of the roster's shortcomings. 

And on Tuesday, Michigan State landed its biggest portal addition in three years, with 6-foot-7 wing Frankie Fidler, who starred at Omaha the last three seasons, committing to the Spartans.

Fidler, a Nebraska native, picked the Spartans over the Huskers, Creighton and Wisconsin. His addition coincided with former Oakland star Trey Townsend canceling his visit to Michigan State.

Fidler is coming off a standout junior season at Omaha, of the Summit League, during which he led the team in points (20.1) while shooting 35.6% from beyond the arc. Fidler also grabbed a team-high-tying 6.3 rebounds and averaged 2.6 assists and 1.2 steals per game. 

Once Fidler entered the portal, he became one of the more sought-after wings on the market. He's considered the No. 69 player in the portal and 13th-best small forward, according to the 247Sports transfer rankings. He visited Michigan State on April 13 before delaying a previously scheduled commitment announcement. In the end, the Spartans got their guy. 

Fidler is Michigan State’s first portal pickup since Tyson Walker transferred to the Spartans from Northeastern ahead of the 2021-22 season. Walker went on to lead Michigan State to a Sweet 16 appearance in 2023 and led the team in scoring the last two seasons. 

Fidler has high-level, two-way abilities and offers length that the Spartans have been lacking on the perimeter in recent seasons. He should bolster Michigan State’s efforts on the glass in the new season. 

He’ll likely start immediately this season alongside 6-4 guard Jaden Akins. With A.J. Hoggard gone, Jeremy Fears Jr. is expected to take over the starting point guard role. Combo guard Tre Holloman could also be in the mix to be the team’s lead ball-handler. 

The Spartans are also welcoming a pair of top-50 prospects in guards Jase Richardson and Kur Teng. 

Fidler's addition leaves Michigan State with one remaining scholarship available. Center Mady Sissoko decided to pursue other schools for his final season of eligibility. 

Players have until May 1 to take advantage of this current transfer portal window.

mkenney@detroitnews.com

@madkenney