University Park, Pennsylvania – Michigan State Spartans target Jonathan Sanderson discusses relationship with staff

Michigan State Spartans Offer 2026 Point Guard Jonathan Sanderson

The Michigan State Spartans offered 2026 point guard Jonathan Sanderson on Friday, making him the most recent offer from head coach Tom Izzo. The point guard position is vital, especially for Izzo’s teams. Some of the great Izzo Spartans played point guard, like Mateen Cleaves and Cassius Winston, Kalin Lucas and Drew Neitzel. Jeremy Fears Jr. looks like the point guard of the foreseeable future, and Izzo is recruiting 2025 target Trey McKenney heavily. Sanderson could be special, though. He has a high motor, plays good defense, and is not afraid to do the dirty work. He can be a formidable three-level scorer, too.

Sanderson’s Relationship with Michigan State

Sanderson’s father, Jon, had been the strength and conditioning coach for Michigan’s basketball team for 15 years. However, Sanderson showed admiration for the tradition and success of the Spartans basketball program and said speaking to Izzo after the June 15 opening was “surreal.” Sanderson expressed his excitement about the offer and the conversation he had with Coach Izzo, highlighting the personal connection they established beyond just basketball.

“The conversation really started not even things about basketball,” Sanderson said. “Just like, how things have changed, you know, growing up as a Michigan guy now I’m talking to Tom Izzo. We were both talking about how it’s kinda crazy, but it’s also super cool. And we went on to how he never saw me play, but yesterday he saw me play and he threw the offer.”

Admiration for Coach Izzo’s Style

Sanderson shared his admiration for Coach Izzo’s coaching style, emphasizing the energy and passion he brings to the game. “I just like his energy. He really wants to win, and I’m a player that really wants to win. And I feel like I can connect with him because I get mad and I can get angry and I understand his emotions sometimes,” he said. Sanderson’s enthusiasm for the game aligns well with the competitive spirit that Coach Izzo embodies.

Impact of Recruiter Saddi Washington

Sanderson’s primary recruiter, Saddi Washington, has played a significant role in building the relationship between Sanderson and the Michigan State coaching staff. Having worked with Sanderson’s father at Michigan, Washington brings a personal touch to the recruiting process. Sanderson praised Washington as an “awesome guy” and highlighted his strong basketball knowledge and genuine care for building relationships beyond the court.

“He’s a relationship guy, he could care less about basketball,” Sanderson said. “When it comes to the court, just being around him he knows the game very well. Really smart dude, just knows the ins and outs of basketball.”

Final Thoughts on Michigan State

As Sanderson continues to explore his options and weigh his college choices, the offer from Michigan State and the opportunity to play under Coach Izzo’s guidance hold a special place for him. The tradition and success of the Spartans basketball program, combined with the personal connection he has formed with the coaching staff, make Michigan State a compelling option for the talented point guard.

Stay tuned for more updates on Jonathan Sanderson’s recruitment journey as he navigates the exciting path towards college basketball.