Michigan State fans hoping for a Summer League reunion between Jase Richardson and Frankie Fidler had to wait.
Richardson was ruled out Sunday night for Orlando’s matchup with Portland for undisclosed reasons, leaving the former Spartans teammates on opposite benches instead of opposite sides of the floor. The game still delivered plenty of action, though, as the Magic outlasted the Trail Blazers 112-105 in overtime and moved to 2-1 in Summer League play.
Fidler logged 21 minutes in the loss, but it was a rough shooting night. He finished 1-for-7 from the field, with his lone make coming from 3-point range.
He added five rebounds, two assists and two steals, but also committed three turnovers. Even so, he was one of only three Trail Blazers to finish with a positive plus-minus, posting a +3.
Richardson’s absence also meant no reunion with Tre Holloman, who was listed as a DNP via coach’s decision for Orlando.
The good news for Spartan fans is Richardson is expected back for Orlando’s next game Wednesday against the Philadelphia 76ers at 4 p.m. ET on ESPNU. He’s coming off a 15-point showing in Saturday’s win over the Miami Heat.
Fidler won’t have to wait long for another chance either. He’s set to play Monday night against Minnesota at 11 p.m. ET on ESPN2.
And he won’t be the only Michigan State name in action this week. With the Summer League postseason approaching Friday, the Spartans will be scattered across the schedule.
Monday brings a full slate of former Michigan State players. Jaden Akins and the New York Knicks face the Detroit Pistons at 4 p.m.
ET on Amazon Prime. Carson Cooper and the Grizzlies meet the Mavericks at 7 p.m.
ET on ESPN. Jaxon Kohler’s Utah Jazz take on the Chicago Bulls at 9 p.m.
ET on ESPN. Then Fidler closes the night for Portland against Minnesota at 11 p.m.
ET on ESPN2.
The busy run continues Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. On Wednesday, Richardson and Holloman’s Magic are set to face the 76ers at 4 p.m.
ET on ESPNU, while Kohler’s Jazz play the San Antonio Spurs at 9:30 p.m. ET on Prime.
It’s a packed week for Spartan fans watching Summer League.
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The timing matters, too, because Michigan State is not entering this one alone. UCLA and Kansas have already shown interest after the Spartans made their move, turning what looked like a strong early offer into a much tougher national pursuit. Pemberton has been standing out in summer showcases with the efficiency and playmaking that have drawn comparisons to established college and pro guards, which means this recruitment figures to stay crowded for a while. [Read more 🡒]
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Michigan State May Have Finally Found Its Answer At Center
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The appeal goes beyond just filling a spot. He has been one of the more decorated centers in his league, and his arrival gives Michigan State a legitimate chance to settle a position that has been a concern. The only real question now is how quickly that production and poise translate once he steps into a Power Four huddle. [Read more 🡒]