Will Richard Shines in First NBA Start despite Warriors' Loss
The Golden State Warriors played without their star Stephen Curry but saw a strong performance from rookie Will Richard during a narrow 121-116 defeat to the Sacramento Kings at the Golden 1 Center on Wednesday night.
Rookie Impact
Richard earned his first career start and impressed by scoring 30 points on efficient shooting, converting 10 of 15 shots (66.7%) including 5 of 8 from three-point range (62.5%), along with seven rebounds and three assists in 35 minutes on the court.
“Will was amazing,” Warriors coach Steve Kerr said. “From the beginning of camp, he’s shown he’s an NBA player and the experience, the poise. He doesn’t turn it (the ball) over. He can handle the ball under pressure. This guy’s a hell of a player.”
Draft and College Background
The Warriors acquired Richard’s draft rights in the second round of the 2025 NBA draft by trading up with the Memphis Grizzlies, giving the 59th pick and a conditional future second-round pick in exchange.
Richard played three years for the Florida Gators, being the first transfer commit under coach Todd Golden after transferring from Belmont.
First career 30-point game in Will Richard's first career start! 📽️ pic.twitter.com/bNilikHGZK
Author's summary: Rookie Will Richard displayed skill and maturity in his first NBA start, scoring 30 points and proving to be a promising asset for the Warriors.