NBA Legend Micheal Ray Richardson Dies at Age 70

Lawton, Oklahoma – Micheal Ray Richardson, a former NBA star known for his time with the New York Knicks, passed away on November 11, 2025, after a short battle with prostate cancer. He was 70 years old.

The New York Knicks announced his passing on Monday, expressing their condolences in a 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 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.’

Richardson’s attorney, John Zelbst, confirmed his client had recently been diagnosed with prostate cancer, stating, ‘The basketball world and anyone Micheal came in contact with lost a great sportsman. He lived life to the fullest.’

During his eight-year NBA career, Richardson was a standout player who earned four All-Star selections and led the league in steals three times. He was a defensive powerhouse, earning First-Team All-Defensive honors in 1980 and 1981. Richardson was selected fourth overall by the Knicks in the 1978 NBA Draft after a successful college career at the University of Montana.

Richardson averaged 14.8 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 7.0 assists per game over his career. His peak came during the 1979-80 season when he led the league in both assists and steals while averaging 15.0 points, earning his first All-Star nod.

However, his career faced challenges after he was banned from the NBA in 1986 for violating the league’s drug policy. Despite this setback, Richardson continued his career in Europe, playing until he was 47 years old and earning respect for his leadership and basketball IQ.

‘He serves as an example of how to redeem yourself and make something of yourself,’ Zelbst said. ‘I think he is the greatest NBA player that has never been inducted into the Hall of Fame.’ Richardson’s legacy in basketball and his personal journey remains an inspiration to many.

Richardson will be remembered not only for his skills on the court but also for his resilience off it. His story was captured in his book, ‘Banned: How I Squandered an All-Star NBA Career Before Finding My Redemption,’ where he expressed his hope that readers would learn about overcoming personal struggles.