MICHIGAN STATE LANDS TOP OVERALL RECRUIT IN AMERICA, FIVE-STAR ELITE FRESHMAN HOOPER CHOOSES SPARTANS AND FULLY PLEDGES TO GREEN AND WHITE
EAST LANSING, MI — June 21, 2025
In a jaw-dropping recruiting triumph that’s sending shockwaves across the college basketball landscape, Michigan State University has officially secured the commitment of the No. 1 overall recruit in America—five-star phenom and elite freshman hooper, Jayvion “J-Rich” Richardson.
The 6-foot-8 combo forward from Los Angeles, California, widely considered a generational talent, announced his commitment in a nationally televised event Friday night. With dozens of programs chasing his signature—including Duke, Kentucky, Kansas, and UCLA—Richardson stunned the basketball world by unzipping a jacket to reveal a “Spartan Dawg” shirt, then declared, “I’m going green and white. Let’s make history.”
Ranked No. 1 in the ESPN 100 and praised for his polished all-around game, Richardson is lauded as a once-in-a-decade recruit. Known for his explosive athleticism, deep shooting range, high defensive IQ, and elite court vision, he has drawn comparisons to NBA All-Stars like Jayson Tatum and Paul George.
“I want to build something special,” Richardson said during his announcement. “Michigan State believed in me not just as a player, but as a person. Coach Wojcik’s plan to re-energize the program, to win and develop pros, matched my vision. I’m not just visiting East Lansing—I’m investing in it.”
Doug Wojcik, recently named Michigan State’s head coach following the retirement of the legendary Tom Izzo, called Richardson’s commitment a “program-defining moment.”
“This isn’t just about one recruit,” Wojcik said. “This is about raising the standard and showing that MSU is still a destination for greatness. Jayvion’s talent speaks for itself, but his humility and leadership already make him a Spartan through and through.”
Richardson is expected to headline a loaded freshman class and is projected to start from day one. With national championship buzz already beginning to build, the Spartans appear poised to re-enter the college basketball elite—and Jayvion Richardson is leading the charge.
