Michigan State’s Xavier Tillman to forgo senior season and remain in NBA Draft

After what could only have been weeks of thinking, talking and probably stressing, Xavier Tillman has made his future decision.

Tillman — the reigning Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year — has decided to keep his name in the NBA Draft. And, honestly, who could blame him?

With the uncertainty of an upcoming college basketball season combined with the opportunity to start making millions for his young family, going pro is certainly a decision no one could scratch their heads over. He also already earned his degree from MSU, won multiple Big Ten championships and helped lead the Spartans to a Final Four.

While there has been no official date set for the NBA Combine, Tillman was included on the list of names who would receive an invite to the event. As was Aaron Henry and Cassius Winston. Henry now plans to withdraw his name from the Draft and return to MSU.

Tillman will certainly be missed as he was the best defensive player in the conference who could guard anyone on any part of the floor. He averaged 13.7 points and 10.3 rebounds per game as well.

For MSU, that means the post position will now be some combination of the Maddy Sissoko, Marcus Bingham, Thomas Kithier and Julius Marble show. Who plays how much is set to be seen later on, but one thing is for certain:

Spartan Nation will truly miss Tillman and will wish him luck in what will be a great pro career.