Brooklyn, NY – The Golden State Warriors continued their active and strategic approach to the 2025 NBA Draft, executing yet another trade to move up and secure a player they clearly coveted. After initially holding the 59th overall pick, the Warriors traded up three spots to the 56th position, where they promptly selected Will Richard, a versatile guard from the University of Florida. This maneuver, reportedly involving the Memphis Grizzlies, showcased the Warriors’ precise targeting of specific talent in the second round.
This selection of Will Richard concludes a remarkable 2025 NBA Draft for the Florida Gators, as Richard became the third player from their national championship-winning squad to be drafted, following Walter Clayton Jr. (18th overall to Utah Jazz) and Alijah Martin (39th overall to Toronto Raptors). Richard’s status as a national champion, a key contributor in Florida’s first title in 18 years, undoubtedly added to his appeal for the Warriors.
Will Richard, standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 206 pounds, is recognized as a prototypical “3-and-D” (three-point shooting and defensive) prospect, a highly valued archetype in the modern NBA. Born on December 24, 2002, Richard will be 22 years old as the NBA season kicks off, bringing a level of maturity and collegiate experience that can be beneficial for a second-round pick.
Richard’s collegiate journey began at Belmont University before he transferred to Florida for his final three seasons. His development trajectory was impressive, culminating in a standout senior year (2024-2025) where he averaged career highs of 13.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game for the national champion Gators. His shooting splits were solid, hitting 48.7% from the field and a respectable 35.9% from three-point range on a notable volume of 5.6 attempts per contest. He was also an excellent free-throw shooter at 84.4%.
What truly elevated Richard’s stock was his performance under pressure. He was a vital piece of Florida’s championship run, earning a spot on the Final Four All-Tournament Team. In the national championship game against Houston, he delivered a crucial performance, leading the Gators with 18 points (including four timely three-pointers in the first half) and eight rebounds in their hard-fought victory. His ability to step up in high-stakes moments speaks volumes about his composure and competitiveness.
Scouts laud Richard for his defensive motor, instincts for steals (averaging 1.7 steals per game in his senior year), and capability to guard multiple perimeter positions. While not an elite athlete, his effort, awareness, and reported 6-foot-10 wingspan allow him to make an impact on the defensive end. Offensively, he excels as a catch-and-shoot threat, comfortable working off the ball and fitting seamlessly into a structured offense. He also showed an improved ability to put the ball on the floor and finish at the rim in his final collegiate seasons.
The Warriors’ decision to move up from 59 to 56 to draft Richard highlights a few key aspects of their draft philosophy:
- Targeted Selection: This isn’t a random pick. Trading up, even a few spots, indicates that the Warriors had Richard highly rated on their draft board and feared another team might snatch him before their original 59th pick. General Manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. and his scouting team clearly saw specific attributes in Richard that they believe will translate well to the NBA and their system.
- Reinforcing the “3-and-D” Archetype: The Warriors’ success has historically been built on shooting, spacing, and versatile defense. Richard, with his proven ability to knock down threes and play tough perimeter defense, perfectly fits this mold. He projects as a player who can contribute off the bench by hitting open shots and locking down opposing guards and wings.
- Cost-Controlled Talent: As a late second-round pick, Richard will be signed to a cost-effective contract, likely a two-way deal or a minimum salary contract. For a team like the Warriors, who consistently operate in the luxury tax, finding productive players on inexpensive deals is paramount to maintaining roster flexibility and depth.
- Winning Mentality: Richard’s experience as a vital player on a national championship team brings an invaluable winning mentality and a proven ability to perform under pressure. This aligns with the Warriors’ culture, which emphasizes competitiveness and selfless team play.
This move for Richard also ties into the Warriors’ broader draft strategy this year. After initially holding the 41st pick, they traded down with the Phoenix Suns to acquire the 52nd and 59th picks. With the 52nd pick, they selected Australian forward Alex Toohey, another versatile, high-IQ prospect. The trade-up for Richard from the 59th pick (which they got from the Suns in the earlier trade) demonstrates their willingness to be agile and responsive to the board, even after making a larger trade.
For Richard, being drafted by the Golden State Warriors is a tremendous opportunity. He will join the team for the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas (July 10-20), where he’ll get his first chance to showcase his skills against other professional prospects. Following Summer League, he’ll compete for a roster spot during training camp. Even if he doesn’t immediately crack the main rotation, his path likely includes significant time with the Santa Cruz Warriors, Golden State’s G-League affiliate, allowing him to further develop his game within the organization’s system.
The Warriors’ scouting and player development staff have a strong track record of identifying and nurturing talent in the later rounds of the draft and from undrafted free agency. Will Richard, with his combination of shooting, defense, and championship pedigree, represents another promising prospect for the Golden State Warriors as they continue to build for both immediate contention and sustainable future success.
