“Battle-Tested and Big Ten Ready”: Trey Fort Commits to Michigan State, Brings Scoring Power and Veteran Presence to the Spartans…………….

“Battle-Tested and Big Ten Ready”: Trey Fort Commits to Michigan State, Brings Scoring Power and Veteran Presence to the Spartans…………….

Michigan State has landed a significant piece in its quest to climb back to national contention. Veteran guard Trey Fort—a 6-foot-4, 200-pound scoring machine with a resume built on grit, growth, and buckets—has committed to the Spartans. Coming off a strong season at Samford University, where he averaged 14.6 points, 3.9 rebounds, and shot an efficient 37.9% from three-point range, Fort is set to bring much-needed firepower and maturity to a Michigan State squad looking to reload and contend in the always-brutal Big Ten.

This isn’t just another transfer. This is a statement.

From Underdog to Leader

Trey Fort’s story reads like a blueprint for resilience. Starting at UT Martin, Fort took the road less traveled—transferring to Copiah-Lincoln Community College, then to Howard College in Texas. It was at Howard that Fort erupted, averaging nearly 25 points per game and earning NJCAA Second-Team All-American honors. He was named MVP of the NJCAA All-Star Game and immediately caught the attention of major programs.

But what makes Fort different isn’t just his production—it’s his persistence. He took the long road and made every stop count. After a stint at Mississippi State that began with promise—21 points in the opener vs. Arizona State—his momentum was halted by a thumb injury. Lesser players might have faded. Fort transferred again, this time to Samford, and reignited his game.

Dominance at Samford

At Samford, Fort was a problem for defenses all season. His 14.6 points per game came in a variety of ways: step-back threes, slashes to the rim, midrange jumpers, and transition finishes. But it wasn’t just about scoring. Fort showed he could rebound, defend, and lead.

He posted 20+ points in multiple games and emerged as a primary option, drawing top defensive matchups and still producing efficiently. His presence made Samford a threat every night, and he finished the season as one of the most consistent guards in the SoCon.

Now, he’s bringing that versatility and mindset to one of college basketball’s most storied programs.

Michigan State’s Vision: Why Fort Fits

Michigan State’s 2024-25 season was defined by ups and downs. The talent was there, but the Spartans lacked a steady veteran guard who could both create his own shot and settle the game in key moments. In Trey Fort, Tom Izzo has found that missing piece.

Izzo has long favored tough, adaptable guards—players who compete on both ends and lead by example. Fort fits that mold perfectly. His maturity, experience, and physical readiness make him an ideal addition to the Spartans’ rotation. He can start, run the offense, or thrive off the ball, spacing the floor and attacking closeouts. He defends well against both point guards and wings, thanks to his size and lateral quickness.

What’s more, Fort has something you can’t teach: chip-on-the-shoulder intensity. He’s fought for every opportunity. Now, he’s earned a shot in the Big Ten, and he’s not just coming to participate—he’s coming to lead.

“Ready to Lead, Ready to Conquer”

Shortly after his commitment, Fort made his intentions clear with a simple message: “Ready to lead, ready to conquer.” That’s not just bravado—it’s a mission statement.

He joins a Michigan State team with young talent and defensive potential, but in need of polish and edge. Fort brings both. He’ll mentor younger guards, challenge teammates in practice, and bring the energy of someone who knows how quickly opportunities can vanish.

And in a league as rugged as the Big Ten, that edge is invaluable. There are no off nights, and every possession matters. Fort has played in big games, weathered injuries, changed systems, and adjusted roles—he’s been through the battles and emerged sharper every time.

Looking Ahead: A Critical Season for the Spartans

For Tom Izzo and Michigan State, the 2025 season isn’t just another chapter—it’s a reset. The Spartans haven’t reached the Final Four since 2019, and the pressure to return to national prominence is building. Trey Fort’s arrival signals a clear message: this program is not standing still.

Fort gives the Spartans a plug-and-play guard with the scoring ability to turn games and the maturity to calm them down. He brings reliability, confidence, and a hunger to prove himself on the highest stage. With Fort in the mix, the Spartans are deeper, stronger, and more balanced.

As the countdown to the new season begins, one thing is clear—Trey Fort didn’t come to Michigan State just to fit in. He came to lead. And if his journey so far is any indication, the Spartans just got a whole lot tougher.