Richardson was a star player for the Knicks and New Jersey Nets before being banned by the NBA for many violations of the league's substance abuse rules. Despite being reinstated two years later, Richardson continued his career overseas and went on to become the head coach of several semi-professional teams.
Meanwhile, on Monday, the Knicks released the following official statement:
“We are saddened to hear about the passing of former Knick Micheal Ray Richardson. One of the fiercest defensive players of his era, the four-time NBA All-Star made an incredible impact on the Knicks during his four seasons with the franchise. Our deepest condolences go to his family, friends and teammates.”
On the other hand, his attorney also released an official statement. Zelbst said:
"The basketball world and anyone Michael came in contact with lost a great sportsman.. He lived life to the fullest. He overcame the most incredible odds to accomplish what he did in life. He serves as an example on how to redeem yourself and make something of yourself. I think he is the greatest NBA player that has never been inducted into the Hall of Fame. Incredible player -- player, person and family man."
Former Detroit Pistons guard and Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer Isiah Thomas told Andscape in June:
"He had it all as a player, with no weaknesses in his game.. He is the player who gave me the most problems playing against him. He was taller, just as fast and could shoot from 3 and midrange. His post-up game was elite. Offensively, he had it all."
Now, after his death, the whole sports world is mourning the tragedy.
Also read:
Meanwhile, on Monday, the Knicks released the following official statement:
“We are saddened to hear about the passing of former Knick Micheal Ray Richardson. One of the fiercest defensive players of his era, the four-time NBA All-Star made an incredible impact on the Knicks during his four seasons with the franchise. Our deepest condolences go to his family, friends and teammates.”
Former Knicks and Nets all-star Micheal Ray Richardson has passed away at the age of 70.
— Knicks Videos (@sny_knicks) November 11, 2025
Richardson was selected by the Knicks out of Montana with the fourth overall pick in the 1978 draft and led the NBA in assists per game (10.1) and steals per game (3.2) in his second season.… pic.twitter.com/RzrxC3gLXG
On the other hand, his attorney also released an official statement. Zelbst said:
"The basketball world and anyone Michael came in contact with lost a great sportsman.. He lived life to the fullest. He overcame the most incredible odds to accomplish what he did in life. He serves as an example on how to redeem yourself and make something of yourself. I think he is the greatest NBA player that has never been inducted into the Hall of Fame. Incredible player -- player, person and family man."
Former Detroit Pistons guard and Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer Isiah Thomas told Andscape in June:
"He had it all as a player, with no weaknesses in his game.. He is the player who gave me the most problems playing against him. He was taller, just as fast and could shoot from 3 and midrange. His post-up game was elite. Offensively, he had it all."
Now, after his death, the whole sports world is mourning the tragedy.
Also read:
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