Tom Izzo Declares Jaden Akins’ Return, Replaces Tre Holloman: “We Have Someone Better”
East Lansing, MI – April 18, 2025 — In a dramatic turn of events that’s already sending ripples through the college basketball world, Michigan State head coach Tom Izzo made a bold and unapologetic statement on Thursday, announcing the return of junior guard Jaden Akins to the Spartans roster while decisively replacing sophomore Tre Holloman.
Speaking during a press conference at the Breslin Center, Izzo pulled no punches.
“Jaden is back—and that changes everything,” Izzo said. “We have someone better than [Holloman]—he should go.”
The move marks a significant shift in the Spartans’ strategy as they prepare for the 2025–26 season. Akins, who had declared for the 2024 NBA Draft before ultimately withdrawing and returning to Michigan State, is seen by many as a cornerstone piece in Izzo’s push to return the Spartans to national championship contention.
Akins’ return is expected to bring an instant boost to the team’s backcourt. Known for his explosive athleticism, perimeter defense, and ability to create his own shot, Akins averaged 10.6 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 1.5 steals per game last season. His decision to come back was met with cheers from fans—but Izzo’s handling of the transition has raised some eyebrows.
Tre Holloman, a promising young guard who saw increased minutes late last season, now finds himself the odd man out. Izzo’s blunt assessment of Holloman’s position surprised many.
“This is about winning,” Izzo continued. “We gave Tre opportunities, but the level we’re going to requires a different kind of player. Jaden is that player.”
Though Holloman has yet to issue a public statement, sources close to the program suggest the sophomore is weighing his options, with a potential transfer now on the table.
Reaction around the college basketball landscape has been mixed. Some analysts applauded Izzo’s no-nonsense approach and his commitment to excellence, while others questioned the optics of dismissing a player so directly.
“Tom Izzo has always been a straight shooter,” said ESPN analyst Jay Bilas. “But this is a new level of frankness—even for him. The message is clear: if you’re not good enough to win at Michigan State, you’re gone.”
Despite the controversy, fans are already rallying around Akins’ return. Student sections and alumni social media circles have lit up with excitement, seeing him as a catalyst to revitalize the program following an underwhelming tournament run last year.
Akins himself appeared calm and confident in his own comments following the announcement.
“I’ve grown a lot in the past year,” Akins said. “This team has what it takes to go all the way, and I’m ready to lead us there.”
As the Spartans head into summer workouts, all eyes will be on how Izzo reshapes his lineup around Akins. Whether the decision pays off remains to be seen—but one thing is certain: Tom Izzo is not playing it safe this season.
