Michigan State freshman guard Jase Richardson has emerged as one of the most intriguing prospects in the 2025 NBA Draft class. After a stellar debut season with the Spartans, Richardson has solidified his status as a first-round talent, though recent mock drafts have placed him just outside the lottery. Despite this, his unique skill set and potential upside continue to attract the attention of NBA scouts and executives.
A Breakout Freshman Campaign
Richardson’s journey to NBA consideration began with a standout performance against Oregon in February, where he scored 29 points in a comeback victory. This game marked a turning point, as he quickly became the Spartans’ go-to scorer, leading them to several key wins and securing the program’s 17th Big Ten title . Throughout the season, he averaged 12.0 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game, shooting 41.2% from beyond the arc .
Strengths and Playing Style
Standing at 6-foot-3, Richardson is a skilled combo guard known for his deadly midrange game and poised pick-and-roll play. He possesses a feathery soft touch on leaners, floaters, and hook shots, showcasing exceptional body control and footwork . His ability to score efficiently in the half-court, combined with his defensive intensity, makes him a promising prospect for NBA teams .
Areas for Development
Despite his impressive skill set, Richardson faces challenges that could impact his NBA transition. His size, standing at 6-foot-3, may be considered undersized for a shooting guard in the NBA, potentially limiting his defensive versatility . Additionally, while he has demonstrated the ability to operate in the pick-and-roll, his isolation scoring remains a work in progress, as he missed seven of eight isolation scoring chances during the season .
Draft Projections and NBA Fit
Recent mock drafts have varied in their projections for Richardson. While some place him just outside the lottery, others have him as high as the ninth overall pick. For instance, Bleacher Report’s Julia Stumbaugh projected Richardson to be selected ninth overall by the Portland Trail Blazers, a team known for its young roster . Similarly, Yahoo Sports’ Kevin O’Connor projected him to land with the Chicago Bulls at No. 12, highlighting his skill set and potential fit with the team .
Conclusion
Jase Richardson’s rapid ascent in the 2025 NBA Draft class underscores his potential to make an immediate impact at the professional level. While he may fall just outside the lottery in some projections, his unique blend of scoring ability, basketball IQ, and defensive tenacity positions him as a valuable asset for NBA teams seeking a versatile guard. As the draft approaches, Richardson’s name is expected to be called early, marking the beginning of what could be a promising NBA career.