My dad made $100 million and won the NBA Slam Dunk Contest twice; now, I’m out to duplicate his March Madness win

The standout player for Michigan State may appear familiar.

That’s because Jase Richardson looks just like his father, Jason.

Richardson (L) and head coach Tom Izzo (R) are trying to replicate what Izzo and Richardson’s father did together in 2000, and that’s win the national championship

As a freshman, Jason helped the Michigan State Spartans and head coach Tom Izzo win collegiate basketball championships.

They captured the national title in 2000.

It was Izzo’s first, and the university’s second.

25 years later, Richardson’s son Jase is attempting to emulate his father’s actions.

Jason has a wealthy and successful NBA career over the past 25 years.

He was the fifth overall choice in the 2001 NBA draft and went on to play 14 seasons. He played for the Golden State Warriors, Charlotte Bobcats, Phoenix Suns, Orlando Magic, and Philadelphia 76ers.

During that period, Jason earned more than $100 million.

He was noted for his acrobatic and athletic jump-out-of-the-gym skills, having won the Slam Dunk Contest not once, but twice.

He was a show stopper.

And now, his 19-year-old son is trying to follow in his footsteps.

Richardson’s name became synonymous with high-flying dunksCredit: Getty

Richardson and Izzo have a relationship that goes back nearly three decadesCredit: Getty

These days, Richardson can be found on the sideline, cheering for his sonCredit: Getty

Jase is the Spartans’ outstanding rookie, guiding them to the Sweet 16 and attempting to win East Lansing its third title.

Izzo has made jokes about the father-son pair throughout the season, most recently when the 2000 championship squad was honoured during a home game this season.

“We got a lot of play out of a lot of different guys and of course, Jase had a career night,” Izzo explained.

“When he got that late block, which was a monster of a block, and all the guys were sitting behind me, I turned around to Jason and asked, ‘Jason who?’

“You know, it was Jase’s night, and how exciting for him and for them and his family, but for us too.”

The 70-year-old head coach has seen a lot of basketball over his career.

However, having the opportunity (and longevity) to coach one of his players’ children is a unique sensation.

Before the season started, Jason advised Jase on how to play for the aggressive head coach.

“Just expect Izzo’s yelling, that’s the one thing he told me about him,” Jase said of his father.

“I’ve been watching a couple games, I’ve been seeing it so I’ve gotta get ready for that.”

Now is the time for the younger Richardson to continue on his father’s legacy and assist the guy who once assisted his father.

“It just seems like a large family. Growing up with Izzo has been like a familial relationship,” Jase explained.

The Spartans are only two victories away from the Final Four, and all eyes will be on Izzo and the younger Richardson.

While a tiny part of the 2000 national championship magic will be in the crowd, smiling with excitement as he watches his son potentially accomplish what he once did: chop down some nets.

March Madness is one of the most exciting periods of the year for basketball fans, with a total of 68 teams competing for the Division I collegiate championship.

This year, UConn has the potential to become only the second team in history to complete a March Madness three-peat, having won the previous two years.

TalkSPORT will provide the most up-to-date tournament news, but UK basketball fans can watch on Sky Sports. The broadcaster will stream every March Madness game via Sky Sports Plus.