Northwest Wayne News

Wayne State University’s men’s basketball team has finalized its roster for the 2025-26 season with the addition of two Division I transfers. Head coach Bryan Smothers announced that Cooper Craggs and Chase Kuiper will join the Warriors, bringing experience from Oakland University and Detroit Mercy, respectively.

Craggs, a redshirt junior forward from Northville, Michigan, played in 34 games for Oakland during the 2024-25 season. He made six starts and scored 78 points while shooting 45 percent from the field. Craggs also contributed with rebounds, assists, steals, and blocked shots throughout the season. His most notable performance was a 14-point game in the season opener against Defiance.

In his earlier seasons at Oakland, Craggs saw limited action but gained collegiate experience after redshirting in 2022-23. At Detroit Catholic Central High School, he averaged nearly 17 points and 10 rebounds per game as a senior and received multiple All-State honors.

Coach Smothers said about Craggs: "Cooper was a late add to the class and we feel strongly that he will be an impact player for us.  Playing in the Horizon League for three seasons provides valuable experience to our program.  His skill and physicality, along with his maturity as a person, will allow his game to translate well to this level."

Kuiper is a sophomore guard from Troy, Michigan. He appeared in 24 games for Detroit Mercy last season. Kuiper scored his first four collegiate points at IU Indy and had a season-high six points at Green Bay. He also earned recognition on the Athletic Director's Honor Roll during Fall 2024.

During high school at Troy High School, Kuiper helped lead his team to a strong record by averaging 19 points and 10 rebounds per game as a senior. He received several state-level accolades for his performance on the court.

Coach Smothers commented on Kuiper: "Chase received some valuable experience as a freshman this past season at the D1 level.  He was able to showcase his offensive skill and his overall basketball IQ.  His understanding of defensive assignments/rotations also stood out.  We are really excited about Chase's development over the next few years."

Both players bring local ties to southeastern Michigan and are expected to contribute immediately as Wayne State prepares for its upcoming basketball campaign.