Breaking update: Yes — the Warriors traded up three spots from No. 59 to No. 56 to secure guard Will Richard from Florida
In the championship game against Houston, he led the Gators with 18 points (including four 3‑pointers)—becoming the only NCAA player to hit those benchmarks in the title game
His college résumé also boasts 129 career steals—a Florida program record for a transfer (si.com).
He began his collegiate journey at Belmont, earned OVC All-Newcomer honors, then transferred to Florida in 2022 (si.com).
The Warriors initially held only the 41st pick, which they traded with Phoenix to move down to 52 and 59 (goldenstateofmind.com).
Holding pick 59, they traded up three spots to No. 56, swapping that pick, rights to Justinian Jessup, and a 2032 second-rounder to Memphis for the 56th pick (dubnationhq.com).
Memphis then used pick 59 on Jahmai Mashack (si.com).
Three‑and‑D fit: With a 6′10″ wingspan and strong defensive metrics (1.7 steals/game), Richard aligns with the Warriors’ need for versatile wing defenders who can shoot (goldenstateofmind.com).
Proven winner: His performance in clutch college games, particularly in the national title run, signals he might handle pressure situations well (si.com).
Roster flexibility: The move also fits their strategy of securing late-round gems while maintaining salary cap flexibility (sfchronicle.com)
Summer League & G-League: Richard will likely get early minutes in Las Vegas Summer League (starts July 5) and may spend time with Santa Cruz, sharpening his game
Development path: Warriors have a history of maximizing late-round picks—Trayce Jackson-Davis and Quentin Post are recent examples
Long-term upside: If Richard continues as a 3‑and‑D wing with defensive versatility and shooting consistency, he could carve out a valuable role off the bench.
After trading their first-rounder in the Butler deal, the Warriors used the 41st pick to cash into 52 and 59, then further packaged assets to secure both Alex Toohey and Richard at 52 and 56 ). This strategy adds depth while keeping cap room open—a pragmatic old-school draft philosophy revived .
- This is a smart, low-risk move with a player who has tangible upside in today’s NBA prototype.
- Warriors coaching staff trusts their development system—Richard’s proven toughness and two-way potential make him a solid candidate to stick in the rotation.
- Keep an eye on how he adapts in Summer League and Santa Cruz this summer. How he performs could very well determine if he becomes a core piece of the Warriors’ future or settles in as a role player.
If you’d like, I can prepare a deep dive into Richard’s college play style, Warriors draft history, or what this means for roster construction—just say the word!
