Michigan State and Michigan Compete for 7-Foot-2 Transfer Moustapha Thiam

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Arpit Soni

Michigan State and Michigan Compete for 7-Foot-2 Transfer Moustapha Thiam

New Delhi, April 20: The Michigan State Spartans and Michigan Wolverines are intensifying their rivalry, even in the off-season. Both Big Ten programs are vying for the same 7-foot-2 transfer, Moustapha Thiam, whose decision could significantly impact their upcoming seasons.

Thiam, currently transferring from Cincinnati, is a highly sought-after player. College basketball insider Jon Rothstein reported that Thiam is scheduled to visit Michigan on Monday. Previously, Rothstein indicated that Michigan State has also been in contact with him.

Thiam began his college career at Central Florida during the 2024-25 season. He started all 34 games, averaging 10.4 points, 6.4 rebounds, and a conference-leading 2.6 blocks per game. He then moved to Cincinnati for the 2025-26 season, where he again started every game, posting averages of 12.8 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game.

While Thiam has attempted 2.0 three-pointers per game throughout his college career, he has only converted them at a 29.0% rate. However, he boasts a 57.6% shooting percentage inside the arc and a 64.7% success rate from the free-throw line.

His impressive height enhances his ability to finish plays inside and strengthens his defensive presence in the paint. Regardless of whether he improves his outside shooting, Thiam is poised to be an impactful player. The decision now lies between East Lansing or Ann Arbor.

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