Very few times in Tom Izzo’s tenure has a player come through the Michigan State basketball program, stayed for just one season, and was still a beloved figure among the fanbase — and with the Hall of Fame head coach.
Jaren Jackson Jr. was an exception, and so was Jase Richardson last season.
Both players had a massive impact on the program during their lone seasons in East Lansing, respectively. Jackson Jr. became a top-five NBA draft pick and Richardson was projected as a potential lottery pick, but fell to No. 25 to the Orlando Magic. Each also helped Michigan State win a Big Ten title, and that’s more than enough to earn Izzo’s respect.
Richardson was the team’s best player last season, and his draft stock reflected that. His departure was also a big hit to the program and Izzo supported his decision to leave. Still, add him to this current team and it goes from scary to national title favorite.
The former Michigan State guard did make an appearance at the Spartans’ North Carolina game in Izzo’s post-game presser, much to the delight of the Hall of Famer.
Tom Izzo's face lit up when he was told Jase Richardson was on FaceTime after Michigan State's win against UNC. 💚 pic.twitter.com/V2V0xsREni
— FOX College Hoops (@CBBonFOX) November 28, 2025
Richardson was presumably on FaceTime with his dad, Jason Richardson, who attended Michigan State’s win over North Carolina at the Fort Myers Tip-Off, and it was a cool gesture for him to FaceTime in to give his former coach a little love. Izzo made sure to acknowledge him, lighting up the second he realized Jase was on FaceTime.
”Hi Jase. Love you, man.”
It was just a normal statement to most, but you don’t see this type of love at other programs with former players. Other coaches have even said as much. Izzo has fostered an incredible culture in East Lansing to the point that former players are comfortable enough to FaceTime in during the usually-fiery head coach’s presser.
Richardson is off doing big things in the NBA, and he has to feel good knowing he left the program in a good place as Izzo hasn’t skipped a beat with a new-look roster this season.
You have to love the family atmosphere at Michigan State.