Draft Day Surprise: Michigan State’s Jase Richardson Slides to Late First Round in Latest NBA Mock Draft Shake-Up
In a surprising turn of events, Michigan State freshman guard Jase Richardson, once projected as a lottery pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, has seen his stock dip into the late first round in recent mock drafts. This shift has sparked discussions among scouts and analysts about his potential fit at the next level.
Rising Expectations and Early Projections
Richardson’s freshman season at Michigan State showcased his scoring prowess and versatility. Averaging 12.1 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game, he demonstrated efficiency with 49.3% shooting from the field and 41.2% from beyond the arc. His ability to score at all three levels, combined with his basketball IQ and defensive tenacity, led many to project him as a lottery pick. Analysts compared him to NBA guards like Derrick White and Rip Hamilton, praising his midrange game and poise under pressure .
Factors Contributing to the Slide
Despite his impressive statistics, several factors have contributed to Richardson’s fall in the draft projections:
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Athletic Limitations: At 6’3″, Richardson lacks elite athleticism and burst, which could hinder his ability to separate from defenders and finish at the rim against NBA-caliber athletes.
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Role Ambiguity: While he excels as a combo guard, his lack of elite playmaking and size raises questions about his role at the next level.
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System Fit: Michigan State’s offensive system, which emphasizes traditional playstyles, may not have maximized Richardson’s potential as a modern NBA guard.
Current Draft Projections
Recent mock drafts reflect these concerns, with Richardson now projected to be selected in the late first round. For instance, ESPN’s Jonathan Givony has him going No. 14 overall to the Atlanta Hawks, noting his improved aggressiveness and productivity in the latter half of the college season . Similarly, SB Nation’s Ricky O’Donnell has him at No. 9 to the Portland Trail Blazers, highlighting his potential to complement young talents like Scoot Henderson.
The Road Ahead
As the 2025 NBA Draft approaches, Richardson faces a pivotal moment in his basketball career. Teams selecting in the late first round may view him as a high-upside prospect with the right development and system fit. With his scoring ability, basketball IQ, and work ethic, Richardson has the tools to succeed at the next level, provided he continues to refine his game and adapt to the demands of professional basketball.
In conclusion, while Jase Richardson’s draft stock has experienced a decline, his potential remains undeniable. With the right opportunity and development, he could prove to be one of the draft’s hidden gems.
