In MSU's season opener, Munson made a brief cameo, logging 20 minutes on the field. Since then, he’s become a fixture in the starting lineup, playing a minimum of 79 minutes in every game. Munson’s rapid adaptation and consistency have not only solidified his place on the team, but also made him a critical part of the Spartan defense, and thus, the entire program. 

"It feels great," Munson said. "Obviously it was difficult at first, but playing with the team, I’ve gelled so well."

His teammates and coaches agree. Munson’s presence on the field has been pivotal in the Spartans’ enhanced defensive record, ranking third in the Big Ten for the fewest goals conceded this season.

Munson’s journey to MSU began with a stint at Sporting KC II, where he signed an MLS NEXT Pro amateur contract in April 2024. This arrangement allowed him to gain valuable experience on a game-by-game basis while preserving his NCAA eligibility. It was a stepping stone that led him to East Lansing, where he quickly became an essential part of the Spartans’ backline.

Yet, Munson’s contribution goes beyond statistics. Earlier this season, he pulled off an acrobatic goal-line clearance that captivated social media, earning him the number one spot on ESPN SportsCenter's Top Ten Plays of the Week. The Spring Hill, FL native deflected the praise of his highlight-reel effort to his teammates.

"I’m very happy with that, but I wouldn’t have been able to do that without the rest of the guys," Munson said.

His performances have made a difference. In early October, the Big Ten recognized Munson as Freshman of the Week, a testament to his growing impact.

Despite his age and inexperience, Munson has emerged as a leader on and off the field. Head coach Damon Rensing highlighted Munson’s confidence and versatility, remarking on the maturity that belies his youth.

"Brandon is very confident, aggressive and he’s so good going forward," Rensing said. "Obviously, freshmen have things they can work on, but he’s got a lot of tools."

With an undefeated record in conference play (4-2-0), the Spartans (5-2-2) have shown clear signs of offensive improvement this season. But with Munson's defensive prowess, the backline has remained solid — a cornerstone of MSU’s encouraging campaign.

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on the freshman defender who has not only exceeded expectations, but also set a new standard for what it means to make an impact as a newcomer at MSU.