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On Thursday evening, Michigan State got some exciting news as 2018 prospect Thomas Kithier opted to commit to the Spartans. It was a quality pickup that continues Michigan State’s recent run across the Great Lakes State over the last few years.
I am extremely excited to announce that I have committed to Michigan State University! ✅✳️ #spartandawgs pic.twitter.com/ae0EkRgtuO
— Thomas Kithier (@ThomasKithier) August 4, 2016
According to 247Sports, Kithier is rated as the No. 2 player in the state of Michigan and a three-star prospect overall. Prep Hoops Michigan has a similar ranking as well and puts the big man at No. 3 in the state for the 2018 class. He’s currently listed at 6-foot-8 and 225 pounds and slotted as a power forward.
Even though Kithier doesn’t have the raw ratings that turn heads nationally, he’s a quality player and one who has a ton of long-term potential. His game is still a bit raw, but he has the athleticism and length to play at the next level, he can run the floor, and he is a solid player on the boards.
What’s especially exciting about this commitment for Kithier and Michigan State is that he should have plenty of time to develop before hitting the court in East Lansing and Tom Izzo should be able to get the most out of him by then. He’s going to bring his effort and could turn into a great player over a couple of years.
From Michigan State’s perspective, this is the program’s first commitment in 2018 and a player that should provide depth behind Kenny Goins and Nick Ward in the years to come. Additionally, if Michigan State can somehow keep some of its elite 2016 prospects or add some major 2017 targets, it could really give Kithier room to grow.
One interesting thing to watch will be how Kithier’s commitment impacts some of Michigan State’s other 2018 frontcourt targets like Brandon Johns. The Spartans should have plenty of scholarships to use in 2018, but it will be interesting to watch and see if Michigan State can once again clean up to the top prospects in Michigan.
All told, Spartan fans should be excited about Kithier’s commitment heading into the future. Admittedly, he’s a prospect that will take some time to grow, but with two years left of high school and some depth in front of him when he arrives at East Lansing, he could end up being a major contributor for the team.