3 quick takes on 2024 guard Jase Richardson picking Michigan State

1. Jase Richardson Commits to Michigan State University, Boosting its 2024 Class

Michigan State University (MSU) faces a challenge in topping its impressive 2023 recruiting class in the upcoming year. However, the verbal commitment from Jase Richardson, a highly ranked combo guard, is a significant addition for the Spartans. Standing at 6-foot-3, Richardson, currently playing for Columbus High School in Miami, is known for his exceptional skills, basketball IQ, and athleticism. The coaching staff expects him to make an immediate impact on the team. Richardson ultimately chose MSU over other schools, including Alabama.

MSU’s coaches compare Richardson’s playing style to a combination of Tyson Walker, A.J. Hoggard, and Jaden Akins. They believe he possesses an incredible desire to win and considers him a smart player. When they describe him as “our kind of guy,” Richardson fits the description perfectly.

Richardson joins the already impressive 2024 class, which includes four-star shooting guard Kur Teng and 6-9 forward Jesse McCulloch. All three players can sign their letters of intent in November, starting from November 8th.

2. Richardson’s Potential Impact in the 2024-25 Season

Aside from his talent, Richardson is a crucial recruit for MSU due to his versatility and potential role in the team, considering the expected roster needs for the 2024-25 season.

MSU believes it can compete for both Big Ten and national championships in the current season. Similarly, if things go well, they envision a team with similar ambitions in the 2024-25 season.

Looking at the potential roster, assuming A.J. Hoggard and Jaden Akins depart after this season (with a higher likelihood of Akins returning), MSU will also lose Tyson Walker and Malik Hall. This scenario sets up a backcourt featuring sophomore Jeremy Fears Jr., junior Tre Holloman, and now Richardson, providing additional ball-handling skills. Teng is also expected to have an early role in the team. Coen Carr and Gehrig Normand should be on the wing, with Normand having the potential for a significant role at that point. Xavier Booker will likely occupy the 4-spot, while Carson Cooper and Jaxon Kohler, and possibly Mady Sissoko, will continue to contribute in the center position.

This has the potential to be an incredibly athletic, exciting team with a high ceiling. Richardson’s presence raises that ceiling, and he could be the dynamic force in the backcourt that Fears represents for the current team.

3. Jase Richardson: A Legacy Recruit in the Izzo Era

Jase Richardson is not only an MSU legacy but also the first legacy recruit of the Tom Izzo era. As the son of former MSU star Jason Richardson, who was part of the 2000 national championship team and an All-American in the following year, Jase adds another layer of connection to the program.

While previous players like Davis Smith (son of Steve Smith) and Denzel Valentine (son of Carlton Valentine) had ties to the university through their parents, Richardson is the first player whose son has played for Izzo while he’s been the head coach at MSU.

Jason Richardson purposely remained in the background, allowing his son to make his own decision. Nonetheless, Jase’s decision to follow in his father’s footsteps highlights the strong bond between the program and its former players, even if Izzo’s coaching methods occasionally frustrate them during their playing careers.

Contact Graham Couch at [email protected]. Follow him on Twitter @Graham_Couch.

This article originally appeared on Lansing State Journal: Jase Richardson picks Michigan State basketball: 3 quick takes