Michigan State basketball has an important piece returning next season.
The school announced Friday that junior point guard Cassius Winston has decided to forgo the 2019 NBA Draft for one final season with the Spartans.
"Playing in the NBA has always been my dream. But I have other dreams as well," Winston said. "This was an incredible season with an amazing group of teammates, but I believe there is still more to accomplish."
The 6-foot star led Michigan State in points per game (18.8) and assists per game (7.5) in 2018-19. Winston was a consensus 2019 second-team All-American and won the Big Ten Player of the Year.
Spartans coach Tom Izzo supported Winston entering the draft, but says he will do "everything" he can to help his protege leave a legacy at Michigan State.
"As a coach the ultimate goal is to get to watch a player live his dreams," Izzo said. "So if Cassius dreams of becoming one of the best players in Spartan basketball history and leaving a legacy, I look forward to doing everything I can to help him make that a reality."
Michigan State advanced to the Final Four of this year's NCAA tournament before falling to Texas Tech 61-51. Many felt its 32-7 record in 2018-19 warranted a No. 1 seed, but it just missed the cut and was named a No. 2 instead.
Nevertheless, the Spartans have their floor general back, so they could make a strong run at their third national championship.