Nicholas Richards, born on November 29, 1997, in Kingston, Jamaica, is a professional basketball player currently playing as a center for the Phoenix Suns in the NBA. Known for his exceptional rebounding and defensive capabilities, Richards has grown into a pivotal role on his teams. He began his basketball journey in Jamaica before transitioning to high school basketball in the United States, later playing for the Kentucky Wildcats in college. He was selected in the 2020 NBA Draft and has since steadily developed his career.
In this article, we will delve into Nick Richards’ age, height, weight, career journey, net worth, achievements, and personal life, among other interesting details.
Nick Richards Short Details
| Full Name | Nicholas Richards |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | November 29, 1997 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 27 |
| Birthplace | Kingston, Jamaica |
| Nationality | Jamaican |
| Height | 7’0″ (213 cm) |
| Weight | 245 lbs (111 kg) |
| Position | Center |
| Team | Phoenix Suns |
| Draft Year | 2020 |
| Draft Pick | Round 2, Pick 42 |
| College | Kentucky Wildcats (2017–2020) |
| NBA Debut | 2020 |
| Current Team | Phoenix Suns |
| Career Highlights | First Team All-SEC (2020) |
| Net Worth (2025) | Estimated $10 million |
Early Life and High School Career
Born in Kingston, Jamaica, Nick Richards initially excelled in sports like football, volleyball, and track and field. His basketball journey began in 2013 when Andre Ricketts, a New York City-based basketball scout, discovered him at a camp in Jamaica. Soon after, Richards moved to the United States to pursue his basketball career.
Richards attended St. Mary’s High School in Manhasset, New York, before transferring to The Patrick School in Hillside, New Jersey, in 2014. He quickly gained recognition for his shot-blocking and rebounding abilities. By 2017, he was ranked as a five-star recruit and committed to the University of Kentucky, where he further developed his skills.
College Career at Kentucky
Richards played for the Kentucky Wildcats from 2017 to 2020 under coach John Calipari. His development was evident over three seasons:
- Freshman Year (2017-18): Averaged 5.1 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks per game.
- Sophomore Year (2018-19): Averaged 3.9 points, 3.3 rebounds, and led the team in blocks with 1.3 per game.
- Junior Year (2019-20): Had a breakout season, averaging 14 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game. He was named to the First Team All-SEC.
Notable Performances:
- Scored a career-high 27 points in a win over Mississippi State in February 2020.
- Dominated against Texas Tech with 25 points and 13 rebounds, clinching victory in overtime.
Following his junior season, Richards declared for the 2020 NBA Draft.
Professional Career
Charlotte Hornets (2020–2025)
Richards was selected 42nd overall in the 2020 NBA Draft by the New Orleans Pelicans and immediately traded to the Charlotte Hornets. He began his rookie year splitting time between the Hornets and their G League affiliate, the Greensboro Swarm.
Key Moments with the Hornets:
- 2021-22 Season: Scored a season-high 12 points against the Philadelphia 76ers.
- 2022-23 Season: Emerged as a reliable backup center, averaging 8.2 points and 6.4 rebounds in 65 games.
- 2023-24 Season: Signed a three-year, $15 million extension and recorded a career-high 26 points in a game against the Utah Jazz.
- Richards showed steady improvement, becoming a critical defensive presence and averaging 9.7 points and 8.0 rebounds per game.
Phoenix Suns (2025–Present)
On January 15, 2025, Richards was traded to the Phoenix Suns in exchange for Josh Okogie and three second-round picks. With the Suns, Richards is expected to play a significant role alongside stars like Kevin Durant and Devin Booker, especially addressing the team’s rebounding issues.
Career Stats
NBA Regular Season
| Season | Team | GP | MPG | PPG | RPG | BPG | FG% | |——————–|—————–|——–|———|———|———|———| | 2020–21 | Charlotte | 18 | 3.5 | 0.8 | 0.6 | 0.0 | 44.4% | | 2021–22 | Charlotte | 50 | 7.3 | 3.0 | 1.7 | 0.4 | 66.7% | | 2022–23 | Charlotte | 65 | 18.7 | 8.2 | 6.4 | 1.1 | 62.9% | | 2023–24 | Charlotte | 67 | 26.3 | 9.7 | 8.0 | 1.1 | 69.1% | | 2024–25 | Charlotte | 21 | 21.0 | 8.9 | 7.5 | 1.2 | 56.1% | | Career Total | — | 221 | 17.4 | 7.0 | 5.5 | 0.9 | 64.9% |
Net Worth and Income Sources
Nick Richards has built a solid financial foundation through his NBA career, endorsements, and other ventures.
Net Worth Details
| Net Worth (2025) | Estimated $10 million |
|---|---|
| NBA Salary | $5 million annually (approx.) |
| Endorsements | Deals with brands like Nike and local sponsors |
| Career Earnings | Over $20 million |
Lesser-Known Facts
- Richards originally excelled in volleyball and track before switching to basketball.
- He played in the 2017 McDonald’s All-American Game, showcasing his talent among the nation’s best.
- He led Kentucky to multiple victories with career-high performances during his junior year.
- Richards was scouted by the NBA while dominating at the G League level.
- Despite a slow start in the NBA, he worked hard to secure a starting role.
- He credits Andre Ricketts for discovering his talent in Jamaica.
- Richards is one of the few Jamaican-born players to make it to the NBA.
- He is known for his shot-blocking and rebounding ability, making him a defensive anchor.
- Richards signed a $15 million extension with the Hornets in 2023, marking a significant milestone in his career.
- His move to the Phoenix Suns in 2025 is expected to further elevate his career.
FAQs About Nick Richards
- What position does Nick Richards play?
Richards plays as a center. - What is Nick Richards’ height and weight?
He is 7’0” (213 cm) tall and weighs 245 lbs (111 kg). - Which college did Nick Richards attend?
He attended the University of Kentucky. - When was Nick Richards drafted into the NBA?
He was drafted in the 2020 NBA Draft, 42nd overall. - What is Nick Richards’ net worth?
His estimated net worth is $10 million. - Which team does Nick Richards play for now?
Richards currently plays for the Phoenix Suns. - What is Nick Richards’ career-high in points?
His career-high is 26 points, achieved in January 2024. - How did Nick Richards start his basketball journey?
He was discovered at a basketball camp in Jamaica and later moved to the U.S. to pursue the sport. - What are Nick Richards’ strengths on the court?
He is known for his rebounding, shot-blocking, and efficient scoring in the paint. - Has Nick Richards won any NBA championships?
As of 2025, he has not yet won an NBA championship.
Conclusion
Nick Richards’ journey from Kingston, Jamaica, to the NBA exemplifies resilience, hard work, and determination. With his recent move to the Phoenix Suns, Richards is poised to make an even greater impact on the court while continuing to grow as a player. His story inspires young athletes around the world, proving that dedication and perseverance can lead to success.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and is intended for informational purposes only. Readers are advised to verify details from reliable sources.
