In the fast-paced, high-octane world of the NBA, where rookies often struggle to find their footing, Will Richard has emerged as a revelation for the Golden State Warriors. The second-round pick out of Florida, fresh off a collegiate national championship with the Gators, has turned heads during the preseason with his seamless adaptation to the Warriors’ system. His mantra—play defense, run the floor, make open shots, and keep the ball moving—has proven to be a recipe for success, and his standout performance in a 118-111 preseason victory over the Portland Trail Blazers has solidified his case as a potential steal of the draft.
Richard, selected 56th overall, has embraced the Warriors’ famously complex motion offense with a maturity that belies his rookie status. At 6-foot-4, the guard’s ability to read the game, combined with his defensive tenacity and playmaking, has drawn praise from teammates and coaches alike. In Tuesday’s win, Richard stepped into the starting lineup in place of Jimmy Butler, delivering 13 points, including clutch 3-pointers that sparked a comeback from a near 20-point deficit. His performance was a testament to his ability to thrive under pressure, even when sharing the court with superstars like Stephen Curry.
“For me, I’ve just been trying to play the right way and keep it simple,” Richard said post-game. “Throughout training camp, I’ve been asking a lot of questions. I want to be on the same page as everybody.” His humility and eagerness to learn have endeared him to the Warriors’ coaching staff, with head coach Steve Kerr lauding his instincts and positioning. “Will’s good, and he really knows how to play,” Kerr said. “He’s in the right spots all the time, he’s active defensively, and he sees the game well.”
Richard’s journey to this point is a story of preparation meeting opportunity. A lifelong Warriors fan, he grew up idolizing the team that drafted him. After contributing to Florida’s national championship run in April, Richard entered the NBA with a chip on his shoulder and a determination to prove himself. Initially coming off the bench in the Warriors’ first three preseason games, he was thrust into the starting lineup on Tuesday after a morning shootaround conversation with Kerr. Richard took the challenge in stride. “At the end of the day, it’s just basketball,” he said. “But it is a little bit different playing with Steph and those guys, because they know how to play, and it’s a lot more simple when you’re out there with them.”
On the defensive end, Richard made an immediate impact, forcing a turnover on his first possession guarding veteran Jrue Holiday. His offensive contributions were equally impressive, from a savvy cut off a Jonathan Kuminga post-up for his first basket to draining 3-pointers that swung the momentum in Golden State’s favor. “Throw him in the fire, and that’s what Steve did, and let him rock,” teammate Gary Payton II said. “I think he did tremendously.”
While Richard’s role with the Warriors is not yet guaranteed—time with the Santa Cruz Warriors in the G League remains a possibility—his preseason performances have made a compelling case for his inclusion in the rotation. Kerr’s confidence in the rookie is evident. “If you’re on the roster, there’s always going to be a path,” Kerr said. “So much happens during the 82-game season. I won’t hesitate to put him out there. I have a lot of confidence in him already.”
As the Warriors gear up for the regular season, Richard’s ability to play “the right way” has positioned him as a potential X-factor. His defensive intensity, playmaking vision, and knack for making timely shots fit perfectly within Golden State’s system. If his preseason is any indication, Will Richard is not just finding his rhythm—he’s on the verge of becoming an undeniable phenomenon, proving that even a 56th pick can shine brightly in the NBA’s spotlight.