Tom Izzo provides promising recovery update on Jeremy Fears Jr.

Tom Izzo is happy with the progress Jeremy Fears Jr. has made in his recovery so far.

The freshman guard has not seen action since Dec. 21 due to a scary shooting that occurred in his hometown of Joliet, Illinois during the Christmas break. Fears underwent surgery on his leg as a result, but Izzo said Monday he’s happy with the recovery Fears has made since then.

On Monday, Izzo told reporters Fears has been making tremendous progress in his recovery. However, Izzo did confirm Fears will not return to the court this season as he continues his rehab.

Michigan State will pursue the possibility of a redshirt for Fears. He did appear in 12 games, but Izzo believes the unusual circumstances should warrant a redshirt for Fears.

Izzo said Jeremy Fears has made tremendous progress in his recovery but says for the first time that he won’t be returning to play this season. Team is looking into the possibility of a redshirt season

— Kyle Austin (@kylebaustin) February 19, 2024

Izzo says that they plan on trying to get a redshirt this season for Jeremy Fears Jr.

“We have like 40 year olds playing football, you would think Jeremy’s situation would be more than deserving.”

— Kenny Jordan (@Kenny_Jordan5) February 19, 2024

The other good news for the Spartans is that Fears’ absence has not set the team back. Michigan State has rallied, including 3 straight wins, and is currently tied for third in the B1G standings.

While it’s unlikely the Spartans can chase down Purdue for the conference title, Izzo’s squad is definitely in contention for a double bye in the Big Ten Tournament. Michigan State will finish the season with games against Iowa, Ohio State, Purdue, Northwestern and Indiana before postseason play begins.