Josh Richardson took to Instagram on Tuesday to announce that he is stepping away from professional basketball, bringing an end to a ten‑year NBA journey that also included stints in Spain.
Over the course of his career he earned $62,342,595 in salary, a figure that reflects his steady rise from a second‑round draft pick to a reliable contributor across multiple franchises.
The bulk of his NBA tenure was spent with the Miami Heat, the team that selected him in the 2015 draft’s second round, though he later suited up for the Philadelphia 76ers, Dallas Mavericks, San Antonio Spurs, Boston Celtics and New Orleans Pelicans.
His most productive season came in 2018‑19, when he posted career‑high averages of 16.6 points, 4.1 assists and 3.6 rebounds per game, underscoring his growth into a two‑way threat.
During the 2025‑26 campaign he played for Basket Zaragoza in Spain, continuing to showcase his versatility on the international stage.
Early Life and College
Richardson’s basketball roots trace back to Knoxville, Tennessee, where he arrived as a low‑rated recruit in the 2011 cycle and quickly rose under the tutelage of coaches Donnie Tyndall and Cuonzo Martin.
Breakout at Tennessee
A breakout junior season saw him shine in the NCAA Tournament, and in his senior year he averaged 16 points, 4.5 rebounds and 3.6 assists, cementing his status as one of the most dynamic players in recent Tennessee history.
Legacy in Tennessee
Analysts and former teammates alike have labeled him among the best two‑way players the state has produced, a testament to his defensive grit and offensive adaptability.
Looking Forward
While his playing days are over, Richardson’s impact will linger in the locker rooms he inhabited and the communities he represented, leaving a blueprint for future prospects.