Michael Ray Richardson Dies At 70: Drugs To NBA Ban, Parents' Divorce, Failed Marriages, Depression

Michael Ray Richardson has died at 70, and it has shaken NBA fandom worldwide. The four-time NBA All-Star, who was one of the brightest talents of his era, is no longer with us. The former New York Knicks superstar breathed his last in Lawton, Oklahoma, and the entire internet and social media are buzzing with his praise. Netizens are emotional and absolutely heartbroken after the news of Richardson's death made its way to the public. The late star's unforgettable journey from an elite defender to receiving an NBA ban is once again in the headlines.

Michael Ray Richardson died at 70 due to prostate cancer: The New York Knicks posts a heartfelt note on the passing of their superstar and four-time NBA All-Star

Talking about the cause behind Michael Ray Richardson's death, as per a report on ESPN, the former point guard passed away soon after being diagnosed with prostate cancer. The late basketball player's close friend and attorney, John Zelbst, reacted to his death and made a bold claim, saying that Richardson is the greatest NBA player never inducted into the Hall of Fame. Calling him an incredible family man and person, Zelbst extended his condolences to his family and relatives.

The unfortunate news about Michael Ray Richardson's passing was announced by the Knicks on November 12, 2025, through their official handle on X. Atop the monochrome picture of the iconic NBA player, the Knicks penned a few words to appreciate the departing soul, and it can be read as:

"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. The basketball world and anyone Michael came in contact with lost a great sportsman."

Michael Ray Richardson's tragic basketball career: From being destined to become an NBA great to being banned by the league for cocaine addiction

It was back in 1978, when Michael Ray Richardson was drafted fourth overall by the New York Knicks, and in a very short period of time, he had made a name for himself in the NBA. From his strong defensive skills to all-around playmaking style and vision, he led the league in steals three times. Due to his incredible potential and smooth style of play, he was nicknamed 'SUGAR' by NBA critics and fans. Unfortunately, all of that came crashing down when he stepped into the world of drugs. The man who was destined for big things was cut short due to his constant struggles with cocaine addiction, which ultimately led to his NBA ban in 1986.

Michael Ray Richardson's troubled childhood: His parents' divorce gave him a lifelong wound that shaped his life and career

It is often stated that one of the primary reasons why Michael Ray Richardson slipped into drugs goes back to the troubles he faced in his personal life. One of the biggest wounds that he carried throughout his life was his parents' divorce when he was just a kid. He never had that father figure in his life, and that absence affected him heavily throughout his life. Although he built that fatherly connection with Jud Heathcore, basketball coach at the University of Montana, it was for a short period of time.

Michael Ray Richardson's marriage story: Two divorces, three wives, and how his drug addiction ruined his life

Michael Ray Richardson suffered a series of heartbreaks in his married life, as he reportedly got married three times and had two divorces. According to some records, Richardson's first wife was Rene Martin, and they had a daughter named Tasha Richardson. However, due to irreconcilable issues, they parted ways. In 1983, he was arrested for attempting to enter his home because his wife, Rene, had obtained a court order barring him. In 2007, he allegedly got married to Kimberly Richardson, and by 2012, he was on his third marriage.

After his divorce, Michael Ray Richardson reportedly slipped into cocaine addiction even more and lost control over his impulsive decisions. As a result, his marriages were hit hard by his cocaine addiction. He reportedly couldn't support his family or spend time with his children. He once talked about his depression, and he labeled it as "Dark Depression" and said, "After my divorce, I got very dark… angry… depression hit me hard."

Now that Michael Ray Richardson is gone, all we can do is learn from his story, which clearly tells us that any addiction can ruin a person's life. However, Richardson still holds a special place in the hearts of NBA fans and will always be remembered for his achievements as a player and coach.

We hope everyone learns from Michael Ray Richardson's story and never comes close to drugs or anything that could harm their career, life, or family.

Also Read: Meet Olivier Rioux, The NCAA Freshman Who Made History As The Tallest College Basketball Player

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