Well, folks, Tom Izzo and Michigan State have their next first-round NBA draft pick in the books as Jase Richardson was selected No. 25 overall by the Orlando Magic, ending his slide outside of the lottery.
Despite being projected as a lottery pick when the season ended in the Elite Eight, Richardson saw a bit of a slide due to his size compared to what he was listed at before the NBA Combine. He was originally listed at 6-foot-3, but measured at 6-foot-0.5 at the Combine, meaning he'd likely have to play primarily point guard in the NBA.
Richardson's athleticism and playmaking abilities set him apart, though. That was never in doubt and it's a big reason the Magic took a chance on him at No. 25.
Was the slide warranted? Not at all as Richardson played much bigger than his size while at Michigan State and became the Big Ten champion's go-to scorer as a true freshman. He also helped lead the Spartans to the Elite Eight and didn't let any moment get too big for him.
Orlando fans are going to love Richardson's ability to get to the rim and score in multiple ways and he can also shoot from the outside at a high clip. He's just a skilled scorer who doesn't get enough love.
Richardson is the first one-and-done for the Spartans since Max Christie and the second since Jaren Jackson Jr. and he looks to find similar success to those two guys (both have been in starting fives since entering the NBA).
Tom Izzo has some Magic tickets to buy next season.