Former Vol Josh Richardson Heading To South Beach

Former Vol Josh Richardson was selected Thursday night in the second round of the NBA Draft.

The guard was picked 40th by the Miami Heat, and was the second pick for the former champions behind former Duke guard Justise Winslow.

He marks the 46th selection in the men’s program history.

Richardson, as we know, had a tremendous senior season in orange. Taking on the point guard roll, he scored a career high 16 points per game and finished the season with 115 assists, more than doubling his 56 assists as a junior.

Richardson will not have a guaranteed spot on the roster, but you have to like his chances.

He is going to a Miami Heat team who does not have a true shooting guard outside of Dwyane Wade. And Wade’s future with the team might be in question. That’s not saying Richardson would be his replacement, but it seems the Heat are preparing for their worst case scenario. On the flip side, if Wade stays, then Richardson will have the opportunity to learn from a future hall of famer.

The Heat undoubtedly see an NBA caliber defender in this pick. As the NBA style of play continues to focus more and more on the three-point shot, perimeter defenders like Richardson will be at a premium. He will need to continue to progress as an offensive player to have a shot at a career in the league, but he has proven that he has the work ethic to do so.

Assuming there is no trade between now and July, get ready to watch Josh Richardson in the NBA Summer League starting July 4 with the Miami Heat, and we will keep you up to date on his progress.