Jase Richardson broke out for the Spartans this season as a surprise one-and-done. He was one of the nation’s most productive and efficient freshmen, making plays on both ends for an excellent Michigan State team. Can Richardson translate his elite efficiency and outside shooting
- Team: Michigan State
- Height: 6’3
- Weight: 186
- Wingspan: 6’4
- Age: 18.7 (October 16, 2006)
Jase Richardson — Guard, Michigan State (18.7 years old)
NBA Comparison: Payton Pritchard, Immanuel Quickley
Richardson’s skill set resembles that of complementary scoring guards like Payton Pritchard and Immanuel Quickley, who have thrived next to other wing creators (Jayson Tatum, Scottie Barnes). It’s worth nothing that Richardson was a significantly better college prospect than both of them, so this comparison pertains more to projected NBA impact. Richardson’s profile is quite unique, making him a challenge to find adequate proxies for.
Strengths
- Acrobatic and efficient finisher in traffic, excellent balance, and hang time to finish through contact
- Efficient shotmaker from every level with a long track record of excellent shooting
- Seasoned off-ball player with years of experience cutting and spacing off of other stars
- Turnover-avoidant player who takes care of the basketball, controlled handle
- Funnky shot creator with step-throughs and pump fakes, excellent intermediate touch
- Flashes of great off-ball defense as a help-side shot blocker and gap defender
Weaknesses
- Average horizontal athleticism, lacks high-end burst to create separation consistently
- Lives on contested shots in the paint, causing some concern despite excellent touch
- Spotty passing vision, especially on interior reads on the move
- Inconsistent on-ball defender, footwork can be overreactive
- Struggles to round screens off the ball without great strength or tight footwork
Offensive role: Complementary/Off-Ball Scorer
Defensive role: Off-Ball Helper
2025 NBA Draft Projection: Round 1, Pick 10-14
Richardson’s lack of size, horizontal explosiveness and passing vision could limit his offensive ceiling, but teams with stars in place should covet Richardson’s skillset. He’d fit well next to especially jumbo wing creators, scoring off of the ball decisively and making sound decisions. His youth, efficiency and productivity could hint at latent star upside down the road.
