In a California Classic Summer League game that had fans buzzing, Golden State Warriors’ second-round rookie Will Richard announced his arrival with a performance that screamed potential. The No. 56 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, whose debut was delayed by pending trade finalizations, wasted no time proving he’s more than just a late-round flyer. With a stat line of 16 points, four rebounds, two steals, and a team-high +13 plus/minus, the former Florida Gator, who helped lead his college team to a national championship, showcased why the Warriors might have unearthed another diamond in the rough.
A Defensive Menace from the Opening Tip
Richard’s impact was immediate and undeniable. On the game’s very first possession, he set the tone by swiping the ball from Spurs guard David Jones-Garcia and racing down the court for an easy layup, notching his first bucket and steal in one electrifying sequence. His defensive instincts, paired with his 6-foot-4 frame and a jaw-dropping 6-foot-10 wingspan, turned him into a nightmare for San Antonio’s ball-handlers. Richard’s active hands and relentless energy forced multiple turnovers, showcasing the kind of defensive tenacity that could make him a mainstay in Golden State’s rotation.
“I have a lot of length on defense, and I can do a good job of knowing where the ball is going to be,” Richard said post-game. “As soon as I saw him bring it down, I knew I could have a chance to steal the ball.” His anticipation and aggression were on full display, and Summer League head coach Lainn Wilson couldn’t help but praise his rookie’s defensive IQ.
“His activity on the ball was great, and he was doing what we asked off the ball as well,” Wilson noted. “There weren’t many times he was caught out of position. He’s a pretty aggressive player, and we can work with that.”
A Two-Way Threat with Room to Grow
While Richard’s defense stole the show, his offensive game showed flashes of brilliance, even if it came with some rookie growing pains. Shooting 3-of-10 from the field, Richard struggled at times with his outside shot, particularly from the NBA’s deeper 3-point line. However, what he lacked in perimeter consistency, he more than made up for with his ability to attack the rim. A perfect 8-for-8 from the free-throw line, Richard drew fouls by fearlessly seeking contact in the paint, a skill that could translate well to the Warriors’ fast-paced system.
Will Richard comes up just short on a buzzer-beater game winning attempt.
He finished with 16 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 steals on 3/10 FGs and a +13 plus/minus. Not a bad debut for the 2nd round rookie. pic.twitter.com/1INptriEtl
— Kenzo Fukuda (@kenzofuku) July 7, 2025
In transition, Richard was a revelation. His teammates repeatedly found him streaking down the lane, leading to easy buckets, including a highlight-reel alley-oop and a smooth transition three that had the crowd roaring. His ability to run the floor with purpose and capitalize on fast-break opportunities added another dimension to his game, hinting at the kind of versatile wing play that could complement Golden State’s stars.
The 3-and-D Dream
It’s easy to get carried away after a single Summer League game, but Richard’s performance was more than just a flash in the pan. His size, hustle, and defensive instincts give him the makings of an elite 3-and-D wing—a archetype the Warriors have long coveted. At 6-foot-4, Richard plays bigger than his listed height, using his massive wingspan to disrupt passing lanes and contest shots. His active hands and high basketball IQ make him a constant threat on defense, while his ability to stretch the floor (when his shot is falling) could make him a valuable piece in Steve Kerr’s system.
That said, Richard’s offensive game still needs polish. The Warriors’ system thrives on players who can knock down open jumpers, especially when defenses collapse on Stephen Curry. Richard’s 3-point shot, while promising, isn’t yet consistent enough to guarantee him minutes. His ability to create his own shot is also limited, a common trait among Golden State’s role players. But if he can refine his jumper and continue to embrace the gritty, hustle-driven style he showed in his debut, Richard could carve out a role sooner than expected.
Another Second-Round Steal for the Warriors?
The Warriors have a knack for finding gems late in the draft, and Richard’s debut suggests he could be the latest in a growing list of second-round successes. While it’s too early to crown him a rotation player, his combination of length, defensive intensity, and offensive potential is exactly what Kerr’s squad needs. If Richard can build on this performance and adapt to the NBA’s 3-point line, he might not stay an underdog for long.
For now, Warriors fans have every reason to be excited about Will Richard. His Summer League debut was a tantalizing glimpse of what could be—a two-way wing who brings energy, versatility, and a relentless defensive mindset. If this is just the beginning, Golden State may have found another steal who’s ready to shine in the Bay.