About
Biography
Walt Richards is a retired American professional basketball player known for his remarkable career in the National Basketball Association (NBA) during the 1980s. Born on April 15, 1961, in Los Angeles, California, Richards played college basketball at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where he was a key contributor to the team's success and earned All-American honors. He was selected as the 15th overall pick in the 1983 NBA Draft by the Portland Trail Blazers.
Richards had a successful stint with the Trail Blazers, where he quickly established himself as a versatile shooting guard. He was known for his scoring ability, sharp shooting, and defensive skills, contributing to the team's playoff appearances during his tenure. He later played for the Sacramento Kings and concluded his NBA career with the New Jersey Nets, where he continued to impact games with his experienced play.
Following his retirement, Richards turned to coaching and became a respected figure in youth basketball development. His legacy extends beyond his playing career, as he has been instrumental in mentoring young athletes and promoting the sport at grassroots levels. In recognition of his achievements, Richards was inducted into the UCLA Athletic Hall of Fame, solidifying his status as one of the notable figures in basketball history.