Magic Draft Jase Richardson, NBA Fans Salute Pick as Father Jason Played for Orlando

Coming into the NBA draft, Michigan State guard Jase Richardson was considered to be a player likely to go in the second half of the first round, though his range seemed fairly wide.

The Orlando Magic ultimately pounced, selecting him No. 25 overall at the 2025 NBA draft on Wednesday, and there was no shortage of reaction to that selection given that his father, Jason Richardson, once played for the team:

Richardson, 19, averaged 12.1 points and 1.9 assists for the Spartans in the 2024-25 season, shooting 49.3 percent from the field and 41.2 percent from three. He helped lead Michigan State to the Elite Eight, with a memorable Sweet 16 showing against Ole Miss (20 points, six rebounds, 4-of-6 from three).

There's no doubt that he has talent and upside, but he also has genuine limitations at this point, including his size.

B/R's Jonathan Wasserman noted that Richardson's "6'0.5" barefoot measurements could scare a few teams, particularly since his skill set is better suited for the 2-guard position. However, his shooting, touch, finishing and decision-making may all be sharp enough for Richardson to get by and still thrive while undersized."

Sam Vecenie of The Athletic added that Richardson "has great touch as a shooter and scorer but is still developing his lead guard skills. He's not that great of a passer, and he's not good with his right hand. Most of Michigan State's actions involved getting the ball into his left hand and putting him in advantageous actions."

Time will tell whether he's defined by his best traits or his limitations. Orlando is hoping they landed a post-lottery steal, however. At the very least, they added another shooter. The Desmond Bane and Richardson additions are a clear indication that the Magic are trying to address their three-point shooting, last season's biggest weakness.