Jase Richardson Declares for NBA Draft After Standout Freshman Season

Michigan State freshman Jase Richardson is heading to the NBA, officially declaring for the draft after a breakout year that surprised even his own father, former NBA player Jason Richardson.

Richardson announced his decision on social media Tuesday, thanking the Spartan community for its support.
“I’m forever grateful to the Spartan community for all their support throughout the season and honored to be a Spartan Dawg,” he wrote.

A 6-foot-3 guard, Richardson averaged 12.5 points per game, shooting an impressive 48.5% from the field and 41.1% from three. His poise, efficiency, and ability to rise in big moments helped Michigan State clinch the Big Ten title and reach the Elite Eight in the NCAA Tournament.

His father, who also played at Michigan State and spent over a decade in the NBA, played a big role in the decision-making process.
“I have a lot of ties in the NBA — know a lot of GMs and scouts — and heard he would probably be a late lottery pick,” said Jason Richardson. “He’s pursuing the dream he’s had since he was a kid.”

Despite high expectations, Jason admitted he didn’t think his son would be a one-and-done player.
“I thought he would take two years, maybe three, but he did some amazing things and helped his team accomplish some great things,” he said.

Jase’s rise was steady and impressive. He earned a starting role midway through the season after an illness sidelined point guard Jeremy Fears. In his first start, Richardson dropped a career-high 29 points in a win over Oregon and never looked back. He averaged nearly two assists per game while keeping turnovers under one — a testament to his decision-making and maturity.

“There can’t be many guys that I’ve coached that are as efficient and as confident — not cocky, not arrogant,” said head coach Tom Izzo.

Richardson’s calm and collected play drew praise from across the conference.
“His poise is extremely impressive, especially factored in that he’s a freshman,” said Michigan head coach Dusty May.

By the time the Big Ten Tournament rolled around, Richardson had earned Big Ten Freshman of the Week honors for three consecutive weeks and was named to the All-Big Ten third team.

His departure adds to a growing list of roster changes for the Spartans. Tre Holloman, Xavier Booker, and Gehrig Normand have entered the transfer portal, with Booker set to transfer to UCLA. The team also graduates key contributors Jaden Akins, Szymon Zapala, and Frankie Fidler.

Still, Izzo has a promising core returning in Fears, Jaxon Kohler, Coen Carr, and Carson Cooper. He’ll also welcome incoming four-star recruits Cam Ward and Jordan Scott.

Jason Richardson said Izzo was fully supportive of Jase’s decision.
“Coach Izzo was the first to say Jase should test the waters — same thing he told me when I had the opportunity,” he said.

With maturity beyond his years and a skill set that continues to evolve, Jase Richardson is now set to take his talents to the NBA — chasing the dream he’s been preparing for his whole life.