Michigan State freshman guard Jase Richardson (11) swings from the net after dunking at the Breslin Center on March 9, 2025.
One year removed from leading MSU to an Elite Eight run, Jase Richardson will be participating in the 2026 NBA Dunk Contest as a rookie.
Richardson is the fourth Spartan under head coach Tom Izzo to compete in the dunk contest. He will follow in his father’s footsteps as a two-time dunk contest winner in 2002 and 2003. Shannon Brown, a mid-2000s Spartan guard and Miles Bridges have also competed in the event.
Halfway through his rookie season, Richardson is averaging five points while shooting 35% from 3-point range in a bench role for the Orlando Magic. Drafted 20th overall in the 2025 NBA draft, Richardson has scored in double figures seven times, including a career-high 20 points in a January win over the Washington Wizards.
At MSU, Richardson grew into a starting role in January, averaging 12 points and 3 rebounds in a deep Spartan team from a year ago.
On his Instagram story, Richardson reposted an Orlando Magic post announcing his appearance in the dunk contest.
“Let’s do it, I guess,” Richardson said, followed by several laughing emojis.
Support student media! Please consider donating to The State News and help fund the future of journalism.
