Bison Cautious of Michigan State’s Impressive 51-Inch Jump Star
Michigan State faces North Dakota State in a first-round NCAA tournament game Thursday at KeyBank Center in Buffalo. The matchup carries added intrigue because of Spartans forward Coen Carr and his extraordinary leaping ability.
Coen Carr’s vertical leap
Coen Carr measures 6-foot-6 and reportedly posts a 51-inch vertical. That places his reach roughly four feet, three inches above the floor.
Teammates and coaches often react to his dunks. Tom Izzo singled out a halfcourt pass that Carr converted into a reverse dunk as a season highlight.
Numbers and comparisons
Carr averages 11.6 points per game and ranks third on the team with 5.4 rebounds. He is one of four Michigan State players averaging double figures.
The official Guinness world record stands at 51.17 inches. That mark belongs to Ruben Roldan Bustos, set in 2024.
How opponents view the threat
North Dakota State coaches and players acknowledge Carr’s athleticism. Coach Dave Richman called him an “absolute freak” and praised his toughness and rebounding.
Forward Markhi Strickland has produced highlight dunks for the Bison. He noted Carr’s athleticism while insisting NDSU will focus on executing its game plan.
Inside matchups and team size
Michigan State counters Carr’s explosiveness with big frontcourt pieces. Carson Cooper is listed at 6-11 and 245 pounds.
Jaxon Kohler adds size at 6-10 and 245 pounds. NDSU guard Trevian Carson warned their opponents are a big, athletic group that can push the pace.
Context and measures of leaping ability
NFL Combine records provide a point of reference. Quarterback Cole Payton produced a 40-inch vertical there, the third-highest by a QB.
The NFL uses a standing vertical measurement. Social media shows Carr using a running approach during testing.
Impact beyond highlight reels
Coaches say Carr’s play produces momentum and intimidation. Teammates note those plays can change the game’s tone beyond two points.
Izzo praised Carr’s consistency, humility and variety in how he finishes at the rim. The coach called the combination rare for a player who avoids showboating.
Reporting note
The Spartans practiced in Buffalo on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, ahead of the tournament opener. Photo credit: David Samson / Filmogaz.com.
Jeff Kolpack, who reported on the matchup, has worked at the Jamestown Sun and the Bismarck Tribune. Since 1990 he has been with Filmogaz.com, covering NDSU athletics since 1995.
- Kolpack has covered all 10 of NDSU’s Division I FCS football national titles.
- He is the author of four books, including “Horns Up” and “They Caught Them Sleeping.”
- He also hosts “The Golf Show with Jeff Kolpack” each April through August.
The Bison remain cautious about Michigan State’s impressive 51-inch jump star as they prepare for Thursday’s meeting. Both teams expect a physical game inside and an energetic atmosphere in downtown Buffalo.
