The news that everyone was dreading has finally become official: Jase Richardson is declaring for the NBA draft.
While this news hurts, it's not shocking in the least.
Following the season, Tom Izzo spoke with the media and said that he would hope Richardson would at least test the NBA draft waters and see where he's projected. It looks like he's doing just that.
Actually, it looks like he's staying in no matter what, according to a report from Justin Thind.
NEWS: #MichiganState freshman guard Jase Richardson is declaring for the NBA Draft.
— Justin Thind (@JustinThind) April 8, 2025
A source clarified to me that he’s a full go and is not expected to consider withdrawing.
My thoughts on the decision & what this now means for MSU’s portal plan: https://t.co/uGSNM9KjoY (VIP) pic.twitter.com/vH9cdAWIQD
While there is no such thing as an absolute in college basketball, it does feel like Richardson declaring for the NBA draft is a bit of a finality. It would be nice to get him back for a sophomore season because he would be a legit National Player of the Year candidate, this decision makes the most sense for him. He has done enough to be projected as a lottery pick.
And although this is a tough pill to swallow, it does help Michigan State's recruiting. Izzo now has another feather in his cap when it comes to developing elite talent.
Yes, Richardson came to Michigan State with NBA talent but I don't think anyone outside of his family expected him to be a one-and-done. He exceeded expectations in year one and became the best player on the team and helped lead the Spartans to a Big Ten title and an Elite Eight run.
Now Izzo can officially turn his attention to the transfer portal and find guys who fit his system. The Spartans now have just eight guys on the roster heading into 2025-26 with Cam Ward and Jordan Scott coming in and Jeremy Fears Jr., Coen Carr, Jaxon Kohler, Carson Cooper, Kur Teng, and Jesse McCulloch returning.
Time to get to work.