Former NBA star Jason Richardson has sparked speculation about a potential return to professional basketball through his ongoing participation in Ice Cube’s BIG3 league. The two-time Slam Dunk Champion continues demonstrating his athletic prowess at age 44 with Tri-State, keeping fans debating whether he could still compete at higher levels.
From NBA Stardom to BIG3 Dominance
Richardson’s legacy includes:
- 14 NBA seasons averaging 17.1 PPG with Warriors, Suns, Magic & 76ers
- Back-to-back NBA Dunk Contest wins (2002-2003)
- Leading the league in three-pointers made (2007-2008 season)
- Scoring over 14,000 career points
Since joining Tri-State in 2021, Richardson has adapted his high-flying style to the BIG3’s half-court format while mentoring younger players like Isaiah Briscoe.
The Injury That Changed Everything
A chronic knee injury forced Richardson’s abrupt NBA retirement in 2015 after multiple surgeries. Doctors warned continued play risked permanent mobility damage. His final NBA game saw him score 19 points against Chicago despite limited mobility.
Why Fans Still Demand More
| Achievement | NBA Rank |
|---|---|
| Most consecutive dunk titles | T-1st (with Jordan & LaVine) |
| 3PM from 2007-2012 | 1st (820 makes) |
| Playoff PPG | T-45th (17.1) |
Richardson remains one of only seven players with multiple dunk contest wins and a championship ring (2000 NCAA title with Michigan State). His combination of athleticism and shooting precision – shooting .370 from three-point range career-wide – continues influencing modern wing players.
The BIG3 Factor
While Richardson hasn’t confirmed NBA comeback plans, his BIG3 performances prove retained skills:
- Averaging 12.4 PPG in 2024 season
- .412% from four-point range (league-specific zones)
- Team captain leadership role
“The fire never dies,” Richardson recently told ESPN. “Every time I step on court, I’m competing like it’s Game 7.”
