Florida Gators guard Will Richard has been selected in the 2025 NBA Draft by the Golden State Warriors, marking a significant milestone in his basketball journey.
Will Richard’s name being called during the 2025 NBA Draft was more than just a personal triumph—it was the culmination of years of relentless effort, improvement, and dedication to his craft. For the Florida Gators, it was also a proud moment, as one of their standout guards earned the opportunity to take his talents to the professional level. For the Golden State Warriors, selecting Richard represents a calculated and promising investment in a young player who brings a rare combination of shooting, defense, and maturity. As the Warriors look to extend their competitive window while transitioning into a new era, Richard arrives at a critical juncture in the franchise’s identity and vision.
Richard’s journey to the NBA began with a strong collegiate career, first making his presence known with his quiet consistency and steadily expanding skill set. At Florida, he became a cornerstone of the program, a reliable two-way guard who could be trusted to take and make big shots, while also handling his responsibilities on the defensive end. He wasn’t necessarily the flashiest player on the floor, but his impact was undeniable. His ability to stretch the floor with a reliable three-point shot, combined with his versatility on defense, made him a matchup problem for opponents and a key piece in the Gators’ game plans.
Throughout his time in Gainesville, Richard developed a reputation for being a high-character player—someone coaches could trust and teammates could rely on. He brought leadership both vocally and by example, showing up to every practice with intensity and focus. That maturity is part of what appealed to NBA front offices during the evaluation process. Teams aren’t just looking for athletes; they’re looking for professionals who can adjust to the rigors of the league, and Richard fit that mold. His on-court intelligence was just as valuable as his physical tools, and his interviews with teams reportedly reinforced the notion that he had the mindset to thrive at the next level.
Golden State’s decision to draft Richard aligns with a larger strategy the franchise has been exploring in recent years: balancing the pursuit of championships with the development of young talent. As legendary stars like Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Klay Thompson approach the twilight of their storied careers, the Warriors are looking toward a future that blends experience with youth. Richard, with his polished game and winning mentality, offers a perfect bridge between those two timelines. He may not be expected to start immediately, but he could carve out a valuable role off the bench, contributing with defense, spacing, and efficient decision-making.
Richard’s fit within Golden State’s offensive and defensive schemes is intriguing. Offensively, his shooting ability means he can thrive in the Warriors’ motion-heavy, spacing-based system. The team’s emphasis on ball movement and off-ball cuts plays to Richard’s strengths, particularly his ability to read defenses, relocate for open shots, and make quick decisions. He doesn’t need the ball in his hands to be effective, and that’s crucial on a team where high-usage players already exist. His willingness to play within the system rather than dominate the ball could accelerate his transition to the NBA.
On the defensive end, Richard brings size, lateral quickness, and a competitive edge that Golden State values highly. Head coach Steve Kerr and his staff have long emphasized defense as a cornerstone of their success, and Richard’s ability to guard multiple positions will likely be put to good use. Whether chasing shooters around screens or bodying up stronger wings, Richard offers the kind of versatility that modern NBA defenses demand. His potential to become a reliable perimeter defender gives him another avenue to earn minutes early in his career.
It’s also important to acknowledge what this means for the Florida basketball program. Having a player selected in the NBA Draft sends a message to recruits and fans alike: the Gators are developing talent that is ready for the league. Will Richard is now part of that legacy, and his success can only help reinforce Florida’s status as a launchpad for future pros. For head coach Todd Golden, seeing one of his players drafted serves as a vindication of the developmental system he’s built. Richard’s rise from solid college contributor to NBA draft pick is a testament to the program’s ability to hone talent and prepare players for the next step.
Richard’s personal growth over his college career also deserves recognition. Early in his collegiate tenure, there were questions about whether he could elevate his offensive game and adapt to playing in high-pressure moments. He answered those questions with a string of strong performances, particularly in conference play and late-game situations. He improved his shooting mechanics, became more comfortable creating off the dribble, and learned how to impact games even when the ball wasn’t finding the bottom of the net. That adaptability is one reason the Warriors believe he can contribute in a variety of ways, regardless of the rotation or opponent.
The Warriors, as an organization, are no strangers to player development. They’ve successfully molded young players into rotation-ready contributors, even as their stars continued to carry the franchise to playoff success. Players like Jordan Poole and Jonathan Kuminga have shown how the team can integrate youthful energy into their core, and now Richard joins a group that includes not only emerging talent but also veterans who are willing to mentor the next generation. The culture in Golden State is built on accountability, trust, and an unselfish approach to the game—all traits that align well with Richard’s personality and playing style.
While the leap from college basketball to the NBA is significant, Richard’s transition may be smoother than most. His skill set translates well to the modern game, and his attitude suggests he’s prepared to embrace the grind of earning minutes. The early stages of his NBA career will likely focus on learning the intricacies of the Warriors’ system, building chemistry with teammates, and continuing to refine his shooting and defensive techniques. As he grows more comfortable, there’s reason to believe he could become a steady contributor and, eventually, a valued part of Golden State’s long-term core.
For fans of both Florida basketball and the Golden State Warriors, there’s reason to be excited. Richard represents a player with upside, work ethic, and a team-first mentality. He may not dominate headlines with highlight-reel dunks or gaudy stat lines, but his presence will be felt in ways that matter—closing out hard on shooters, making the extra pass, and keeping the team’s energy high during key stretches. He has the kind of game that coaches love and that helps win games, even if it doesn’t always show up in the box score.
The story of Will Richard is still in its early chapters, but it’s already inspiring. From developing into a leader at Florida to being selected by one of the NBA’s most respected franchises, his journey reflects what’s possible when talent meets preparation. His selection in the 2025 NBA Draft is not just a reward for past achievements, but a doorway to new opportunities and challenges. It’s the start of a career that has the potential to leave a lasting mark, both in the league and in the hearts of fans who appreciate the value of hard work, humility, and consistent excellence.
As the NBA season approaches and Richard begins training camp with the Warriors, all eyes will be on how he adapts to the next level. The preseason will give him chances to showcase his readiness, and the regular season will present moments where he’ll need to prove his reliability. Whether it’s stepping in for injured players, hitting a timely corner three, or locking down a hot opposing guard, Richard’s value will be measured in how well he complements the team’s mission and culture. The Warriors didn’t just draft a player—they brought in a competitor, a student of the game, and someone who understands what it takes to contribute at the highest level.
The road ahead is long, but Will Richard is ready for it. He’s taken every step of his basketball journey with purpose, and now he enters the biggest stage of all with momentum and confidence. From the SEC to the NBA, from Gainesville to the Bay Area, his next chapter promises to be as impactful as the last. If his college career is any indication, the Golden State Warriors just added a player who’s ready to grow, contribute, and help carry forward a championship legacy.
