Nick Richards Biography Nicholas Richards born November 29, 1997 is a Jamaican professional basketball player for the Phoenix Suns in the NBA. He played college basketball for the Kentucky Wildcats.
Nick Richards Biography
Nicholas “Nick” Richards is a Jamaican professional basketball player currently playing as a center for the Charlotte Hornets in the NBA. Born on November 29, 1997, in Kingston, Jamaica, Richards’ remarkable journey from a multi-sport athlete in Jamaica to an NBA player is a testament to his dedication and perseverance.
Nick Richards Biography Details 2025
| Born | November 29, 1997 (age 27) Kingston, Jamaica |
| Listed height | 7 ft 0 in (2.13 m) |
| Listed weight | 245 lb (111 kg) |
| High school | · St. Mary’s (Manhasset, New York)· The Patrick School (Hillside, New Jersey) |
| College | Kentucky (2017–2020) |
| NBA draft | 2020: 2nd round, 42nd overall pick |
| Playing career | 2020–present |
| Category | Biography |
About Nick Richards
Nicholas Richards is a Jamaican professional basketball player for the Phoenix Suns of the National Basketball Association. He played college basketball for the Kentucky Wildcats.
- Born: 29 November 1997 (age 27 years), Kingston, Jamaica
- Wingspan: 23 m
- Height: 13 m
- Position: Center
- Education: The Patrick School, Jamaica College, Saint Mary’s High School
High School Career
Born and raised in Kingston, Jamaica, Richards attended Jamaica College (JC) where he participated in football, volleyball, and track and field before being discovered by Andre Ricketts, a basketball scout from New York City, at a basketball camp in Jamaica during the summer of 2013. Ricketts brought Richards to the United States, where he enrolled at St. Mary’s High School in Manhasset, New York. In 2014, Richards transferred to The Patrick School in Hillside, New Jersey.
Richards was a five-star recruit in the class of 2017, as ranked by ESPN. He committed to the University of Kentucky in November 2016, becoming the first recruit in their 2017 class. He chose Kentucky over offers from Syracuse and Arizona. Richards played in the 2017 McDonald’s All-American Boys Game, where he scored two points, grabbed two rebounds, and blocked two shots in 14 minutes.
Early Life and Family Background
Richards was born and raised in Kingston, Jamaica, where he developed an early passion for sports, excelling in football, volleyball, and track and field. In 2013, during a basketball camp in Jamaica, he was discovered by New York-based scout Andre Ricketts, who helped him move to the U.S. to pursue basketball opportunities.
After relocating to the U.S., Richards attended St. Mary’s High School in Manhasset, New York, before transferring to The Patrick School in Hillside, New Jersey in 2014. His mother, Marion Tenn, has been his strongest supporter throughout his athletic journey. Richards has one sibling, Sharique, and credits his mother as his biggest influence. He is also a huge fan of soccer, with Cristiano Ronaldo being his favorite athlete.
Career Beginnings and Key Milestones
Richards made his mark in high school basketball, quickly gaining recognition for his athleticism and skill. Ranked as a five-star recruit in the 2017 class by ESPN, he committed to the University of Kentucky in November 2016, choosing the Wildcats over other programs like Syracuse and Arizona. During his time at Kentucky, Richards improved significantly under Coach John Calipari. In his standout junior season, he averaged 14 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game, earning First-team All-SEC honors.
After declaring for the 2020 NBA Draft, Richards was selected 42nd overall by the New Orleans Pelicans, but was traded to the Charlotte Hornets. Richards made his NBA debut on December 30, 2020, and has since earned recognition for his rebounding ability, defensive presence, and efficient scoring. In March 2023, he signed a three-year, $15 million contract extension with the Hornets, reflecting his importance to the team.
Notable Works and Achievements
Richards’ career has been marked by notable accomplishments, including:
- McDonald’s All-American (2017):Recognized as one of the top high school players in the U.S.
- First-team All-SEC (2020):Earned recognition for his performance during his junior season at Kentucky.
- NBA Career:As of the 2024-2025 season, Richards has played in 221 games, averaging 7.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 0.6 assists per game, with a field goal percentage of 64.9%.
Current Relevance and Recent Updates
In the 2024-2025 season, Richards continues to be an impactful player for the Charlotte Hornets, averaging 8.9 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game with a field goal percentage of 56.1%. Off the court, Richards is active on social media, engaging with fans and sharing his personal and training experiences. His relationship with Leah Edmond, a former University of Kentucky volleyball star, has drawn attention from both fans and the media.
Personal Life and Relationships
Richards is currently in a relationship with Leah Edmond, who is widely regarded as one of the best volleyball players in Kentucky’s history. Their shared athletic backgrounds have created a strong bond, with Edmond often seen cheering him on at his games. Richards is very close to his family, especially his mother, who has been a constant source of support. He often credits them with helping him achieve success, from Jamaica to the NBA.
Interesting Facts and Trivia
- Richards initially pursued soccer and volleyball before focusing on basketball in his teens, showcasing his versatility.
- He was discovered at a basketball camp in Jamaica, a turning point that changed the course of his life.
- During his time at Kentucky, Richards maintained an impressive field goal percentage, over 60%, in his final season.
- He is fluent in Patois, the Jamaican Creole language, and takes pride in sharing his cultural heritage with teammates and fans.
- Richards is a fan of reggae music, often citing Bob Marley and artists like Chronixx as influences.
Charitable Work and Legacy
Richards is dedicated to giving back to his community, supporting youth sports initiatives in Jamaica and funding basketball programs for young athletes. He also participates in NBA community outreach programs, mentoring children and advocating for education through sports. His journey from a multi-sport athlete in Jamaica to an established NBA player serves as an inspiration to many. Richards’ legacy will be defined not only by his on-court success but by his efforts to create opportunities for others, particularly young athletes in underprivileged communities.
Future Plans and Impact on Culture
Looking ahead, Richards aims to further establish himself as a key player for the Charlotte Hornets, with aspirations of becoming an NBA All-Star. He also plans to expand his philanthropic efforts and hopes to launch a foundation supporting young athletes in the Caribbean. Richards’ story highlights his adaptability and perseverance, showing that with dedication, one can overcome obstacles and achieve greatness. His impact on basketball culture and his philanthropic endeavors make him a role model for aspiring athletes around the world.
Nick Richards Net Worth and Lifestyle 2025
Nick Richards has an estimated net worth of $5 million, primarily derived from his NBA contracts, endorsements, and other ventures. In 2025, he signed a three-year, $15 million contract extension with the Hornets. He also earns from brand endorsements, notably a deal with a sportswear company. Richards enjoys a luxurious yet down-to-earth lifestyle. He reportedly owns a modern home in Charlotte and has made investments in high-performance vehicles. Despite his financial success, he remains humble and is known for his philanthropic efforts, contributing to youth development initiatives both in the U.S. and Jamaica.