Breaking News: Top 5-Star Guard Jase Richardson Decommits from Tennessee Vols Basketball, Flips Commitment to Michigan Wolverines Men’s Basketball Over Texas and Others
In a shocking twist to this year’s college basketball recruiting landscape, five-star guard Jase Richardson, one of the most sought-after prospects in the nation, has officially decommitted from the University of Tennessee and announced his commitment to the Michigan Wolverines Men’s Basketball program. The 6-foot-4 combo guard made the announcement early Monday morning via social media, stunning fans of the Vols and sending waves of excitement through Ann Arbor.
Richardson, the son of former NBA guard Jason Richardson, had originally committed to Tennessee back in late 2024, citing a strong connection with the coaching staff and their up-tempo system. However, sources close to the family indicate that a number of factors played into his decision to reconsider, including coaching uncertainty, shifting roster dynamics, and a desire to be closer to family roots in the Midwest.
Michigan, under new leadership and showing a fresh, aggressive approach on the recruiting trail, emerged late as a serious contender. In the past month, the Wolverines surged ahead of other high-profile programs such as Texas and even reported dark-horse contenders like Cleveland State—not the Browns as misreported in some early rumors. That miscommunication spread quickly due to the similar names and the chaos surrounding the news.
Jase took an official visit to Michigan just two weeks prior to the announcement. According to insiders, that visit was pivotal in his decision-making process. The Wolverines emphasized their player development track record, NBA connections, and their plans to make Richardson the centerpiece of their backcourt for the 2025-26 season. The newly revitalized culture under head coach Dusty May reportedly resonated with both Jase and his family.
Michigan’s 2025 recruiting class was already ranked among the top 10 nationally, but Richardson’s commitment vaults them into top-5 territory. Pairing Richardson with four-star wing Elijah Moore and highly touted big man Terrence Gates could give the Wolverines one of the most balanced and dynamic recruiting classes in the nation.
Richardson is widely praised for his elite scoring ability, court vision, and two-way impact. He’s currently ranked No. 9 overall in the ESPN Top 100 and No. 2 among combo guards. His ability to both run the offense and play off the ball will give Michigan major flexibility in their lineup.
As for Tennessee, the loss is a major blow to a class that had hoped to reload after several key departures to the NBA and transfer portal. Coach Rick Barnes and his staff will now have to revisit the recruiting board and may look to the transfer portal themselves to fill the unexpected void.
In the ever-evolving world of college basketball, commitments can flip in an instant—and Richardson’s decision is the latest reminder that nothing is final until the ink is dry. For now, Michigan fans have every reason to celebrate, as a future star is headed to Ann Arbor.