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Jason Richardson is perhaps one of the most underrated stars to play in the NBA. Originating from Michigan, he was one of the best school and college basketball players in the country before his entry to the NBA.
Richardson was picked as the 5th overall pick in the 2001 Draft by the Golden State Warriors and would don the mantle of captain for the next seven years. His athleticism, work ethic and dedication would immeasurably endear him to fans.
But a big part of Richardson’s lasting legacy will be the two Slam Dunk contests he won in 2002 and 2003, making him just one of three NBA players to win the contest in consecutive years. In 2006, Richardson led the Warriors to their first playoff game in 13 years.
Widely regarded as one of the best dunkers of all time, Richardson closed the door on a memorable 14-year career in October after learning of a dangerous condition in his right knee. In India to promote the sport and participate in 2 of the biggest NBA sponsored events in the country – the Reliance Foundation Junior NBA Program and the NBA Jam, the former captain of the current NBA champs took time to interact with us:
His First impression of India
Pleasantly surprised by the (figurative) warmth of the country and its people, Richardson is enjoying teaching basketball to kids and speaks highly of their willingness to learn the sport.
His opinion of basketball in India
Though basketball has a relatively smaller following than cricket and football, Jason believes that there is huge potential in India and that basketball camps and clinics like the one he’s attending will go a long way in the sport’s development in the country.
Considering the specific attributes that basketball requires, does India have talent that could make it to the NBA?
Richardson answers with a definite ‘Yes’. A player who is renowned for his athleticism, he is highly impressed with the agility and athletic ability of the youngsters he witnessed. And he is unequivocal when he says that he believes that India certainly has the talent to represent the tricolour in the NBA.
The most effective measure to help evolve the sport in India, according to him
Jason beileves that the foundation is the key to the sport’s growth. He feels that a higher number of experienced coaches need to get involved in nurturing children and eventually, the sport will thrive in India.
He cites the example of China, who were first represented in the NBA in 2001 and are now Asian champions. While he doesn’t believe that basketball will enjoy the same global prevalence as football or cricket on the national scale, it can become the 2nd most popular sport in India.
Richardson is of the opinion that there needs to be more participation in the sport amongst youngsters and that the sport needs more televisation and media attention.
It is impossible to omit his name when mentioning ‘Slam Dunk’ in the same sentence. But who are his favourite dunk artists, historically and currently?
Dominique Wilkins, Julius Erving, Michael Jordan, Vince Carter and himself – but not in that exact order, he adds, with a grin. Amongst the current crop, the two names that stand out are the incumbent Zach LaVine and Dwight Howard.
The emotions that gripped him when he saw the Golden State Warriors win the last NBA Championship.
Richardson was overtaken by immense pride and happiness at that moment. The longtime ex-captain of the Warriors was overjoyed, not just for the team but also the loyal, adoring fans.
His appraisal of the current Warriors roster
Jason feels that they’re a very strong team, and have a high chance of retaining the title, though the path will be tougher, with stronger, hungrier teams standing in their way.
His thoughts on Doc Rivers, coach of the Los Angeles Clippers, saying that had the Warriors faced his team last season, the championship picture might have looked different
Richardson really hopes that contest happens this season, and while he is sure that all 7 games will have to be played for a definite outcome, he believes the Warriors will triumph.
Finally, his lasting impression of India
The famed hospitality and amiability of the people, which he will return, hopefully soon, to enjoy.
