Article graphics by Omar Zahran (@omarzahran.bsky.social on Bluesky)
When you think of great Knicks guards, names like Frazier, Monroe, Brunson, and Starks come to mind. A name that should have more resonance with fans is Michael Ray Richardson. Richardson passed away on November 11, 2025, after a battle with prostate cancer. Despite only being a Knick for four seasons, Richardson ranks 10th in assists, 3rd in steals, 2nd in triple-doubles, and 2nd in steal percent in Knicks history.
The story of Richardson is one of wonder and reimagination. He was the first active player in NBA history to be banned for life in 1986 when he violated the league’s drug policy three times. Despite being reinstated in 1988, Richardson would never play in the NBA again. His story is a cautionary tale of the pitfalls that come with being an NBA player, but it is also a story of overcoming adversity and carving a successful life after hitting rock bottom.
