Valparaiso's Wood To Transfer To Michigan State
VALPARAISO, Ind. (AP) - Valparaiso guard Brandon Wood is planning to transfer to Michigan State after earning his bachelor's degree.
Crusaders coach Homer Drew disclosed the news Friday. The redshirt junior from Kokomo, Ind., was the Horizon League's No. 3 scorer last season at 16.7 points and was the only non-senior chosen to the all-league first team.
NCAA rules allow schools to apply for a waiver that would allow a transfer to play immediately if they have earned a degree, have eligibility remaining and enroll in a graduate-level program.
"Brandon Wood gives us a combo guard that's proven himself as a scorer against strong competition; scoring 30 against North Carolina, 24 against Michigan State and 20 or more against Purdue twice in the last two years," Michigan State coach Tom Izzo said in a statement released by the school. "He's proven himself on the court, but also in the classroom as he'll receive his degree this month.
It's a big addition to Michigan State's roster.
Senior guard Kalin Lucas is out of eligibility, and coach Tom Izzo kicked Korie Lucious off the team last season, leaving a hole on the perimeter that Wood can help fill.
"We were in a little bit of a unique situation in that when we signed our incoming freshman class, we expected Korie Lucious to be a part of this year's team, playing significant minutes," Izzo said. "After Korie's dismissal, we were in a position where we could take a talented, experienced guard for one season and not have it affect either the incoming freshmen or future recruiting classes."
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