Harlem Globetrotters player Richardson, 28, dies during tour

[alamo50]

Dec. 11, 2008
CBSSports.com wire reports


PHOENIX -- Chris "Flash" Richardson, a member of the Harlem Globetrotters, died in his sleep Wednesday while on tour in Japan, an official with the team said Thursday. He was 28.

Although the cause of death was not yet confirmed, Richardson likely died of natural causes, said Globetrotters spokesman Brett Meister.

The players were at a U.S. military base in Sasebo, Japan, as part of an annual holiday tour. The Globetrotters are in their 83rd consecutive season of touring the world.

Meister said the organization was still in shock over Richardson's death.

A native of Corpus Christi, Texas, the 6-foot-7 Richardson played at UNLV and joined the Globetrotters shortly after his college career ended.

Richardson was known for his dunking skills and a genial disposition, according to Meister.

"He was a great Globetrotter on and off the court. He just had a very engaging smile that would light up the room," Meister said.

Richardson was also active with organizations such as the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Boys & Girls Clubs as well as adoption agencies.

Funeral plans were incomplete but team officials said the memorial service would take place in Corpus Christi.

Richardson's survivors include his mother.


http://www.sportsline.com/collegebas...story/11166391

[BlackSwordsMan]

That has to be one of the worse ways to die, in your sleep.

[leemajors]

That has to be one of the worse ways to die, in your sleep.

yeah it must be terrible to die with little pain.

[mavs>spurs2]

how does a healthy athlete die in their sleep at 28 of "natural causes?" People don't just die at 28 something was wrong with him..

[Trainwreck2100]

how does a healthy athlete die in their sleep at 28 of "natural causes?" .

razzamataz

[ClingingMars]

That's terrible. the Globetrotters one practiced in our HS's gym and after basketball practice we just chilled in the stands and talked to him. Couldn't be nicer guys, giving the players tips on dunking and such.

-Mars

[BlackSwordsMan]

yeah it must be terrible to die with little pain.

It just irks me to not know that I've died.He went to bed expecting to wake up the next morning but didn't.