The NBA playoffs are here, and for fans of Michigan State basketball, the postseason brings a unique Spartan storyline to follow. While the league features seven MSU alums, only one will be lacing up his sneakers in the playoff spotlight this year.

That honor belongs to rookie guard Jase Richardson of the Orlando Magic. Richardson's eighth-seeded Magic face a monumental first-round challenge against the top-seeded Detroit Pistons, who are seeking their first deep playoff run in over 15 years. While his role may be limited, simply being in that high-stakes environment is invaluable experience for the young guard finishing his first professional season.

The playoff field nearly featured more Green and White, but it wasn't to be. Veterans Draymond Green (Golden State Warriors), Miles Bridges, and Xavier Tillman (both Charlotte Hornets) saw their seasons end in the play-in tournament. Green, a Warriors cornerstone since 2012, and Bridges, a Hornet since 2018, were joined this season by Tillman, reuniting the former Spartan teammates for the first time since Tillman's freshman year in East Lansing.

And while he's not suiting up, a final nod goes to former MSU guard Mat Ishbia, who will be watching his Phoenix Suns compete as the Western Conference's eighth seed from his seat as the team's owner. As the intensity ramps up, all eyes in Spartan Nation will be on Jase Richardson as he begins his playoff journey.