Happy Canada Day! Meet the Two Proud Canadians Now Spartans — Unveiling Their Journey, Grit, and Impact on Michigan State Basketball
As fireworks light up the sky across the Great White North this Canada Day, Michigan State fans have a double reason to celebrate — two rising Canadian stars have officially joined the Spartan basketball family, and their journey to East Lansing is as inspiring as it is electrifying.
Meet Jordan Mbeki and Liam O’Sullivan, the pride of Toronto and Vancouver respectively. Their paths to Michigan State couldn’t have been more different, but their destination — clad in green and white — is the same. Now, both are poised to leave a deep mark on Tom Izzo’s program.
Jordan Mbeki, a 6’7” explosive combo guard from Toronto’s Crescent Heights Academy, has long been touted as one of Canada’s most versatile prospects. A fierce two-way player with elite defensive instincts, Mbeki turned down offers from Baylor, Villanova, and UCLA to join MSU. Known for his lockdown defense, tenacity, and leadership, he was the MVP of the BioSteel All-Canadian Game and a standout at the FIBA U18 Americas for Team Canada.
Liam O’Sullivan, a 6’10” stretch forward with a silky jumper and high basketball IQ, hails from Vancouver’s West Point Grey area. A late bloomer who caught fire during the Nike EYBL summer circuit, O’Sullivan’s court vision and perimeter shooting make him a matchup nightmare. Coaches rave about his humility, work ethic, and willingness to dive for loose balls — all Izzo trademarks.
“Canada breeds toughness, and these two bring that and more,” said Coach Izzo. “They’re going to elevate our program with their grit, humility, and fire.”
Together, Mbeki and O’Sullivan symbolize a new wave of international talent flocking to Michigan State — players drawn by legacy, culture, and the promise of growth under a Hall of Fame coach.
As the maple leaf waves proudly today, Canada can now cheer on two of its own who wear the Spartan helmet with pride — proving that from coast to coast, Spartan Nation truly knows no borders. #CanadaDay #SpartansWorldwide #MSUBasketball
