Former Knicks All-Star Micheal Ray Richardson has passed away at the age of 70 in Oklahoma. His death followed a battle with prostate cancer, as reported by Andscape.
Micheal Ray Richardson’s Legacy in Basketball
Richardson’s influence on basketball ran deep, making him a prominent figure in the NBA. Known as “Sugar,” he was a standout player from the University of Montana, leading to his selection as the fourth overall pick in the 1978 NBA Draft by the New York Knicks.
During his four seasons with the Knicks, Richardson excelled, averaging 14.2 points, 7.1 assists, 6.0 rebounds, and 2.6 steals per game. His performance earned him two All-Star selections and recognition on the First Team All-Defense twice.
Career Highlights and Trades
Notable moments in Richardson’s career include a significant trade in which the Knicks sent him and a fifth-round pick to the Golden State Warriors for Bernard King. His tenure with the Warriors was brief, totaling only 33 games, before he was traded to the New Jersey Nets. There, he was named the NBA Comeback Player of the Year in 1985, following a season where he averaged a personal best of 20.1 points per game.
Challenges and Ban from the NBA
Richardson’s career faced a tragic turn in 1986 when he received a lifetime ban from the NBA due to multiple drug policy violations. His struggles with addiction were detailed in his book, “Banned: How I Squandered an All-Star NBA Career Before Finding My Redemption.”
Post-NBA Career and Coaching
Despite the ban being lifted two years later, Richardson never returned to the NBA. He did, however, continue to play professionally in leagues such as the United States Basketball League and the Continental Basketball Association (CBA). Over his entire career, he averaged 14.8 points, 7.0 assists, 5.5 rebounds, and was a leader in steals.
Richardson also ventured into coaching, overseeing teams in the CBA and the National Basketball League of Canada. His coaching career faced challenges too, including a suspension in 2007 for making alleged anti-Semitic remarks while with the Albany Patroons.
A Reflection on His Life
His friend and attorney John Zelbst remarked on Richardson’s remarkable journey, stating that he serves as an inspiring example of redemption. Many in the basketball community remember him not only as a talented player but also as a devoted family man.
Micheal Ray Richardson’s enduring legacy will remain in the hearts of those who admired his talent on the court and his resilience off it.
