Micheal Ray Richardson's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Micheal Ray Richardson. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Micheal Ray Richardson (died November 11, 2025) was an American professional basketball player and head coach. A Montana Grizzlies college player, he was the fourth overall pick in the 1978 NBA draft. He played eight years in the NBA for the New York Knicks, Golden State Warriors, and New Jersey Nets. Richardson was a four-time NBA All-Star and a three-time league leader in steals. After his NBA career, he became a head coach in the Continental Basketball Association (CBA) and National Basketball League of Canada.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

1972: State Championship Team

In 1972, Michael Ray Richardson played on the state championship team.

1976: Lead the League

In 1976, Michael Ray Richardson became the third player in NBA history to lead the league in both assists (10.1) and steals (3.2), setting the Knicks' franchise records in both categories.

1978: Big Sky Regular-Season Title

In 1978, Michael Ray Richardson averaged 24.2 points and 6.9 rebounds, and Montana captured the Big Sky regular-season title.

1980: Second All-Star Game

During the 1980-81 NBA season, Michael Ray Richardson made his second All-Star game, scoring 11 points, grabbing 5 rebounds, and recording 4 steals in a 123-120 Eastern Conference victory.

1984: Upset of the Philadelphia 76ers

In the 1984 playoffs, Michael Ray Richardson led the Nets to an upset of the defending champion Philadelphia 76ers, scoring 24 points and having six steals in the deciding game.

October 30, 1985: Near Quadruple-Double

On October 30, 1985, Michael Ray Richardson scored 38 points, grabbed 11 rebounds, recorded 11 assists, and stole the ball 9 times, during a 147–138 win over the Indiana Pacers, nearly achieving a quadruple-double.

1987: CBA Championship

During the 1987–88 season, Michael Ray Richardson played with the Albany Patroons of the Continental Basketball Association (CBA).

1989: Won the FIBA Cup Winners' Cup

In the 1989–90 season, Michael Ray Richardson won the European-wide second-tier level FIBA Cup Winners' Cup with Virtus Bologna.

1990: Won Cup Winners' Cup

In 1990, Michael Ray Richardson won the Cup Winners' Cup with Virtus Bologna.

1995: Won the LNB Pro A championship

In 1995, Michael Ray Richardson won the LNB Pro A championship with Olympique Antibes.

2008: Continental Basketball Association Finals

In 2008, Michael Ray Richardson led the Cavalry to victory in the Continental Basketball Association Finals

2009: Continental Basketball Association Finals

In 2009, Michael Ray Richardson led the Cavalry to victory in the Continental Basketball Association Finals.

2010: Premiere Basketball League Finals

In 2010, Michael Ray Richardson led the Cavalry to victory in the Premiere Basketball League Finals.

November 2011: Coach of the Month

In November 2011, Michael Ray Richardson was named the NBL Canada's first ever Coach of the Month.

January 2012: Coach of the Month

In January 2012, Michael Ray Richardson won the NBL Canada Coach of the Month award again.

March 25, 2012: Inaugural NBL Canada Championship

On March 25, 2012, Michael Ray Richardson led the Lightning to a victory over the Halifax Rainmen to win the NBL Canada's inaugural championship.

April 12, 2013: Back to Back NBL Champions

On April 12, 2013, Michael Ray Richardson led the London Lightning to an 87–80 victory over the Summerside Storm, becoming back to back NBL champions.