San Francisco, CA – The Golden State Warriors continued to round out their 2025 NBA Draft class with a focus on versatile, high-IQ players, selecting Will Richard, a guard from the University of Florida, with the 56th overall pick.1 This pick was acquired by the Warriors from the Memphis Grizzlies in a draft-day trade, marking another instance of Golden State maneuvering in the second round to secure players they value.
Richard’s selection makes him the third Florida Gator chosen in the 2025 NBA Draft, alongside Walter Clayton Jr.2 (No. 18 overall to the Utah Jazz) and Alijah Martin (No. 39 overall to the Toronto Raptors), highlighting a banner year for the Florida basketball program.3 Notably, Richard was a pivotal member of the Florida Gators team that captured the program’s first national championship in 18 years in 2025, solidifying his pedigree as a winner on the biggest stage.
Will Richard, standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 206 pounds, is a combo guard known for his “3-and-D” potential.4 Born on December 24, 2002, Richard will be 22 years old when the NBA season begins. He began his collegiate career at Belmont University before transferring to Florida, where he spent his final three seasons.5 His journey through college basketball saw consistent improvement, culminating in an impressive senior campaign.
In his 2024-2025 senior season with the Florida Gators, Richard averaged career highs of 13.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game. He was a crucial offensive and defensive contributor for the national championship-winning squad, showcasing his ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor. His shooting splits were respectable at 48.7% from the field and 35.9% from three-point range on 5.6 attempts per game.6 His free throw shooting was excellent at 84.4%.
Richard’s performance in the NCAA Tournament was particularly impactful. He was named to the Final Four All-Tournament Team, leading the Gators with 18 points (including four three-pointers in the first half) and eight rebounds in their comeback 65-63 victory over Houston in the national championship game.7 He also had strong outings in earlier rounds, including 15 points against UConn and Maryland. This ability to perform under pressure in high-stakes games undoubtedly resonated with NBA scouts.
Scouting reports on Richard generally highlight his attributes as a potential role player in the NBA. He is seen as a “3-and-D” prospect, meaning a player who can reliably hit catch-and-shoot three-pointers and play solid defense. His defensive strengths include a high motor, good instincts for steals (averaging 1.7 steals per game in his senior year), and the ability to guard multiple perimeter positions. While he may not possess elite athleticism, his competitive nature and defensive awareness allow him to make an impact.
Offensively, Richard is primarily a catch-and-shoot threat, comfortable working off the ball within an offensive system. He showed an improved ability to attack the basket and finish around the rim in his later college years. While not a primary ball-handler or creator, his efficiency and willingness to play within a team concept make him an attractive fit for a team like the Warriors, who value spacing and off-ball movement.
For the Golden State Warriors, the selection of Will Richard at 56th overall is a continuation of their strategy to find plug-and-play role players in the later stages of the draft. After drafting Alex Toohey with the 52nd pick (acquired in a trade from Phoenix), the Warriors used another late second-rounder on a player who fits their established mold.
Here’s why Richard is a good fit for Golden State:
- Shooting (3-Point Threat): The Warriors’ offensive philosophy is built around elite three-point shooting and floor spacing. Richard’s career 3-point percentage of 35.5% (including a higher 39.8% in his sophomore year at Florida) indicates he can be a reliable perimeter threat. His ability to hit shots will allow him to contribute to the Warriors’ flow offense, creating space for stars like Stephen Curry and Draymond Green.
- Defensive Versatility: Richard’s “3-and-D” archetype is highly sought after in the modern NBA. He can guard opposing wings and guards, offering valuable versatility on the defensive end. His defensive energy and instincts for steals align with the Warriors’ desire for disruptive, switchable defenders.
- High Basketball IQ and Team Play: Coming from a disciplined and successful program like Florida, Richard demonstrates a strong understanding of team basketball. He plays within the system, makes smart decisions with the ball, and is not prone to high turnovers. This unselfish, intelligent play is a core tenet of the Warriors’ culture.
- Championship Pedigree: Playing a crucial role on a national championship team brings invaluable experience and a winning mentality. Richard has proven he can perform under pressure and contribute to a successful collective, which is a significant intangible for an NBA team.
- Cost-Controlled Asset: As a late second-round pick, Richard will likely be signed to a cost-effective contract, potentially a two-way deal or a minimum salary contract. This financial flexibility is critical for the Warriors, who operate under significant luxury tax constraints.
Richard was not invited to the NBA Combine or the greenroom at the NBA Draft, making his selection a testament to the Warriors’ confidence in his abilities and their scouting process. He was reportedly drafted by the Memphis Grizzlies with the 56th pick, who then traded his rights to the Warriors before the pick was officially announced, showcasing Golden State’s targeted approach.
Will Richard will now look to impress the Warriors’ coaching staff and management during the upcoming NBA Summer League and training camp. While making an immediate impact on the main roster can be challenging for a late second-round pick, his “3-and-D” skill set and winning background give him a legitimate chance to carve out a role, potentially starting with the Santa Cruz Warriors in the G-League, as he continues his development within the Golden State system. For a team always seeking valuable contributors from unexpected places, Will Richard represents a calculated swing for a player who fits the Warriors’ identity.
