
Michigan State basketball is making moves in the transfer portal as it looks to reload its backcourt following the departures of Jase Richardson and Tre Holloman. On Tuesday, the Spartans took a significant step in their pursuit of a key replacement by hosting Samford transfer Trey Fort on an official visit. Fort, a 6-foot-4 shooting guard, is coming off a productive season and has emerged as a top target for Michigan State as they reshape their roster for the upcoming season.

During the 2023-24 campaign at Samford, Fort averaged 14.6 points, 4 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game while shooting an efficient 44.8% from the field and 37.9% from three-point range. His scoring ability, particularly from beyond the arc, would be a welcome addition for Michigan State, which will need reliable perimeter shooting and veteran leadership heading into next season. Fort brings a wealth of experience to the table, having played at multiple levels of college basketball throughout his career.
Fort’s journey is one of perseverance and adaptability. Before arriving at Samford, he spent time at Tennessee-Martin, Copiah-Lincoln Community College, Howard College, and Mississippi State, making Michigan State his sixth stop in six years. While his path has been anything but conventional, it has given him a broad range of experiences and has helped shape him into a seasoned player who understands the demands of college basketball. At Howard College, Fort truly began to make a name for himself, averaging an impressive 26.3 points per game and earning NJCAA All-America honors. That breakout season helped him land a spot at Mississippi State, where he began the 2022-23 season as a starter before a thumb injury limited his minutes and production.
Fort rebounded well in his lone season at Samford, reestablishing himself as a capable scorer and showing improved shot selection and decision-making. His blend of shooting, size, and maturity makes him an attractive option for a Michigan State team in need of immediate impact players. With the departure of both Richardson, a highly-touted freshman who opted to explore other opportunities, and Holloman, a key rotational guard, the Spartans have clear holes to fill in their backcourt rotation.
According to Justin Thind of 247Sports, Fort is currently on an official visit with the Spartans, suggesting that Michigan State is serious about securing his commitment. While no decision has been announced yet, the visit indicates that Fort is high on Michigan State’s list and could be nearing a decision soon. With only one season of eligibility remaining, Fort will likely be looking for a program where he can make an impact right away and compete at a high level — qualities that Michigan State offers under head coach Tom Izzo.
If Fort commits to Michigan State, he would not only bring scoring and shooting to the roster but also provide valuable leadership and experience in a backcourt that will be undergoing significant change.