Top 20 former Michigan State Spartans to play in the NBA
By Riley Nisbet
4. Jason Richardson
Jason Richardson was a Golden State star before being a Golden State star was cool.
Richardson was drafted fifth overall by the Warriors in the 2001 NBA Draft after only two years at Michigan State. After an impressive first season, in which he averaged 14.4 points, 1.3 steals, and 4.3 rebounds per game, Richardson earned NBA All-Rookie First Team honors in 2001-02.
Related Story. Why Michael Beasley's signing is good for the Pistons future. light
Although Richardson never budded into an All-Star, nor won any other All-League awards, he put together a strong career. He averaged at least 10 points per game every season except for his final season, ending his career with a 17.1 ppg average.
Although Richardson’s career 3-point percentage was an above-average 37 percent, he was a good and reliable 3-point shooter. In 2007-08 he led league in three’s made made with 243 (oh how times have changed!) and currently stands 23rd All-Time on the made three’s list with 1,608.
Although Richardson spent the better part of his career as a journeyman, the Saginaw, MI native is remembered as a Golden State Warrior. In fact, some say he’s never left the Bay Area.