Former NBA All-Star Michael Ray Richardson passes away at 70

Former National Basketball Association (NBA) All-Star guard Michael Ray Richardson, who was banned from the league in the 1980s for violating its drug policy, passed away on Tuesday, November 12, at the age of 70.

Richardson’s attorney and close friend John Zelbst confirmed his death, revealing that the former star had been battling prostate cancer.

“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,” Zelbst said in a statement.

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Richardson rose to prominence at the University of Montana, where his all-around talent earned him comparisons to Knicks legend Walt Frazier. He was selected fourth overall by the New York Knicks in the 1978 NBA Draft and quickly lived up to expectations with his dynamic two-way play.

During his eight-year NBA career, Richardson suited up for the Knicks, Golden State Warriors, and New Jersey Nets, earning four All-Star selections and leading the league in steals three times.

His best season came in 1984–85, when he was named NBA Comeback Player of the Year after returning from a stint in drug rehabilitation. That year, he averaged a career-high 20.1 points, 8.2 assists, 5.6 rebounds, and a league-best 3.0 steals per game for the Nets.

We’re saddened to hear of the passing of former Nets All-Star, Michael Ray Richardson. The Nets family sends their deepest condolences to the Richardson family today. pic.twitter.com/XLUSss2yjR

— Brooklyn Nets (@BrooklynNets) November 11, 2025

However, in February 1986, Richardson was banned for life by the NBA after his third violation of the league’s drug policy. Though reinstated in 1988, he chose to continue his career overseas, playing in Europe until his retirement in 2002.

Richardson was outspoken about the circumstances of his ban, alleging racial bias in how the league handled his case.

“My darkest day was when the guy from the NBA met me at the airport and told me I was banned from the NBA. I will never forget that day. They waited for me in Newark. As soon as I got off the plane, I knew what was going on. After that, I went home and went on a few days binge. And then after that, I came to. I got myself into it. I have to get myself out,” Richardson said in a past interview reflecting on his suspension.

After his playing days, Richardson transitioned into coaching, leading teams in the Continental Basketball League and the National Basketball League of Canada. He later served as an ambassador for the Denver Nuggets in the early 2000s.

A versatile guard known for his defense, court vision, and infectious energy, Richardson finished his NBA career with averages of 14.8 points and 7.0 assists per game in the regular season, and 15.7 points and 7.2 assists per game in the playoffs.

Despite a career marked by both brilliance and hardship, Michael Ray Richardson remains one of basketball’s most compelling figures — a story of talent, redemption, and resilience.

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