Michael Ray Richardson, four times NBA All-Star recently passed away at the age of 70. According to his friend and attorney John Zelbst, he died on Tuesday in Lawton, Oklahoma, shortly after being diagnosed with prostate cancer. He was a member of the New York Knicks once. The team released a statement shortly after his death.
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.
New York Knicks legend Michael Ray Richardson fought silent battle with prostate cancer
After the tragedy, the New York Knicks released an official statement which read:
“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..."
He further continued:
"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."
Richardson was a star player of NBA and everyone loved and respected him, despite his checkered past. Former Detroit Pistons guard and Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer Isiah Thomas talked about the legend to Andscape in June and told him:
"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."
Meanwhile, as of now, his family hasn't said anything about his passing. On the other hand, after the tragedy, the whole sports world is busy mourning his death and remembering his legacy.
Also read: Michael Ray Richardson's net worth: Exploring the NBA icon's source of income as his health battle takes heartbreaking turn
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.
New York Knicks legend Michael Ray Richardson fought silent battle with prostate cancer
After the tragedy, the New York Knicks released an official statement which read:
“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..."
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
He further continued:
"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."
Richardson was a star player of NBA and everyone loved and respected him, despite his checkered past. Former Detroit Pistons guard and Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer Isiah Thomas talked about the legend to Andscape in June and told him:
"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."
Meanwhile, as of now, his family hasn't said anything about his passing. On the other hand, after the tragedy, the whole sports world is busy mourning his death and remembering his legacy.
Also read: Michael Ray Richardson's net worth: Exploring the NBA icon's source of income as his health battle takes heartbreaking turn
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