Philadelphia native and global basketball figure remembered in Wilmington by family, friends, and players

October 24, 2024

The towering Philadelphia native, known for his global basketball career and dedication to youth mentorship, was remembered in Wilmington by family, friends, and fellow players.

BY SAQUAN STIMPSON

Wilmington, DE – October 24, 2024 – On Thursday, October 24, family, friends, and members of the basketball community gathered at Chase Fieldhouse in Wilmington, Delaware, to honor the life of Michael “Big Mike” Richmond, a beloved figure in basketball who passed away on October 12 at the age of 60. Richmond’s death marked the end of a remarkable journey that took him from playground courts in Philadelphia to professional leagues around the world. His funeral service, held at the very arena where he worked as a staff member for the Delaware Blue Coats, was a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to the game and the people it touched.

Richmond’s influence extended far beyond his career on the court. Standing at 6-foot-8, he became known for his powerful presence, both physically and as a mentor. A 2023 inductee into the American Basketball Hall of Fame, Richmond’s legacy was celebrated by his peers as one of perseverance, talent, and a deep commitment to the next generation of players.

Born on May 10, 1964, in Philadelphia, Richmond first made a name for himself as a high school All-American, earning a reputation for his commanding dunks and athletic prowess. His performance at Southern High School led him to New Mexico Junior College, where he averaged 20 points per game, before transferring to the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), where he played under Hall of Fame coach Don Haskins.

Richmond was drafted 3rd overall by the Dallas Mavericks in the 1987 NBA Draft. While his NBA career was short-lived, he went on to play professionally for 14 years in the Continental Basketball Association (CBA) and internationally, with stints in Sweden, Portugal, Estonia, Germany, Greece, Spain, and Italy. His overseas career was marked by multiple championships and accolades, solidifying his status as a respected player across Europe.

His post-playing career was equally influential. Richmond coached youth and semi-professional teams across the country, earning two Coach of the Year honors, and co-owned the Delaware Stars basketball team with his brother Joe. His mentorship, particularly in youth basketball, became a cornerstone of his later years, where he focused on developing young talent and guiding players towards success both on and off the court.

Richmond’s funeral drew a diverse crowd of former teammates, coaches, and mentees, all of whom spoke of his enduring impact. Among them was Marvin Washington, a former UTEP teammate, and Lamont “Showboat” Robinson, founder of the American Basketball Hall of Fame, who called Richmond “like a brother.” The emotional service highlighted not only his professional accomplishments but also the deep personal connections he formed over decades in the sport.

Richmond’s life was also guided by faith. Pastor Warren McKnight, who delivered the eulogy, emphasized the spiritual strength that shaped Richmond’s resilience and his desire to uplift others. “Big Mike” was remembered as a man who embodied teamwork, loyalty, and kindness.

The service, which included a viewing from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., was followed by interment at Mount Lawrence Cemetery in Sharon Hill, Pennsylvania. Richmond is survived by his wife, Tusha, his children, Frederico and Deanna, and his siblings, Lou, Deanna, Kevin, Lance, and Joe.

In reflecting on Richmond’s legacy, his brother Joe Richmond, a well-known figure in the basketball world, said, “The basketball world has lost one of its greats, but his spirit will live on in every player he touched.”

Michael Richmond’s towering presence, both on the court and in the lives of those who knew him, will be missed, but his contributions to basketball—and the lives he influenced—will not soon be forgotten.