Michigan State basketball: 3 blue-chip recruits most likely to sign with Spartans

1. Michigan State basketball recruiting targets: Malaki Branham, SF

Wing depth will be critical for Michigan State in the future. If Bates doesn’t reclassify into the class of 2021, the Spartans could be in need of a starter at the three as soon as next season.

Sophomore Aaron Henry is testing the NBA Draft waters but is likely returning to school for his junior year. A big leap from Henry could see him depart before his senior year, which would create an opening in the lineup.

That is where Malaki Branham, a 6-foot-5 forward from Akron, OH, would come in. A four-star recruit from St. Vincent-St. Mary’s High School, the same high school that produced LeBron James, Branham fits the bill as a typical three.

According to the 247Sports Composite Rankings, Branham is the No. 27 overall recruit, No. 5 shooting guard and the No. 2 prospect in Ohio.

Branham has drawn praise from scouts for his ability to slash to the rim while his outside shot is good enough to keep defenses from cheating in on him. Another area of Branham’s game that is advanced is his defense, which would make him fit right into the rugged game that Izzo’s system dictates.

One of the top challengers for Branham’s services would be Ohio State, which would allow him to stay close to home. Michigan State will have to hope that the commitments of Christie and Bates continue to entice more top recruits like Branham to come to East Lansing in 2021.

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