Former Heat guard Josh Richardson surprisingly retires at 32

One NBA journeyman is calling it a career at 32.

Josh Richardson, who played for six teams, including the Heat twice, announced his retirement via an Instagram post. 

“I always gave my best, that’s why i can say this with no regret,” he wrote Wednesday night. “I am grateful to have been able to love this game and it love me back as much as it did. It wasn’t set up for me at any point in my career, and from high school, college, and the pros i humbly worked my butt off every day be the best that i could be.

“All my fans, coaches and teammates, i hope i left a good impression and a positive view of me. Love, JRICH.” 

Josh Richardson #0 of the Miami Heat plays against the Detroit Pistons in the first round of the Emirates NBA Cup at Little Caesars Arena on November 12, 2024. Getty Images

In case there was any confusion, Richardson confirmed it was a retirement post at the end of his caption and included a laughing emoji. 

The 32-year-old began his career relatively unknown as a second-round pick by the Heat in 2015, but quickly found his way into the team’s rotation. 

He played meaningful playoff minutes in the Heat’s run to the Eastern Conference semifinals, playing over 25 minutes per game throughout the playoffs. 

Richardson spent four years during his first Miami stint, averaging a career-high 16.6 points per game in 2018-19. 

The guard then joined the 76ers and Mavericks for the next two seasons, averaging over 12 points per game while being an effective free-throw shooter. 

He started the 2021-22 season with the Celtics, but was dealt to the Spurs in the Derrick White trade midseason. 

After spending time with the Spurs and Pelicans, Richardson returned back to the Heat in 2023 but couldn’t return to his former self, averaging under 10 points per game in two seasons. 

San Antonio Spurs guard Josh Richardson #7 during a 2023 game against the Knicks. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post

Richardson didn’t start a game in his final NBA season with the Heat in 2024-25, making just eight appearances. 

He played briefly for Spanish club Zaragoza last season.