Michigan State coach Jonathan Smith says he was unaware of an NCAA recruiting probe when hired in 2023, as sanctions hit the program in 2025.

Michigan State coach Jonathan Smith said he didn’t know about an NCAA investigation into recruiting violations under former coach Mel Tucker when he took the job in 2023. The NCAA imposed sanctions in November 2025, including three years of probation, a fine, recruiting limits, and vacating 14 wins from 2022 to 2024—five from Smith’s first season. The university learned of ineligible players in January 2025. Smith, who has a $52.85 million contract with steep buyouts, said his staff self-imposed limits and emphasized recruiting assurances. The Spartans are 3-14 under Smith, winless in Big Ten play, and face final games against Iowa and Maryland.