Golden State Warriors Add Sharpshooting Wing as Florida’s Will Richard Selected in Second Round of 2025 NBA Draft to Boost Depth

In a move that adds both proven shooting and defensive versatility to their roster, the Golden State Warriors have selected Florida Gators guard Will Richard in the second round of the 2025 NBA Draft. For a franchise built on perimeter excellence and basketball IQ, the acquisition of Richard reflects the Warriors’ continued focus on adding high-upside, mature contributors who can thrive within their system alongside established stars like Stephen Curry and Draymond Green.

Richard, a 6-foot-5, 206-pound wing, carved out a reputation as one of the most reliable two-way players in the SEC during his collegiate career. After transferring from Belmont to Florida following his freshman season, Richard steadily developed under head coach Todd Golden, showcasing an ability to defend multiple positions, space the floor with his jumper, and contribute as a secondary playmaker. His selection by the Warriors signals not only recognition of his skillset but belief that his game can translate effectively to the NBA’s fast-paced, spacing-heavy environment.

From Gainesville to the Golden Gate

For Richard, the path to the NBA wasn’t paved with viral mixtapes or lottery hype. Instead, his journey reflects the modern reality of player development — betting on oneself through the transfer portal, thriving in a major conference, and patiently refining skills over multiple seasons. At Florida, Richard became a staple in the Gators’ rotation, averaging 11.4 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game in his final season, while shooting an efficient 39.2% from beyond the arc and 83.7% from the free-throw line.

What set Richard apart from many of his peers in this draft class was his combination of maturity, toughness, and adaptability. Scouts consistently praised his defensive fundamentals, off-ball movement, and understanding of team concepts — qualities that align perfectly with the Warriors’ system, which values unselfish play, spacing, and high basketball IQ.

Though not projected as a surefire first-rounder, Richard’s stock quietly rose during pre-draft workouts, particularly due to his polished jump shot and ability to stay in front of quicker guards during defensive drills. His performance at the NBA Draft Combine further solidified his reputation as a “plug-and-play” prospect capable of contributing off the bench early in his career.

A Warriors Fit on Both Ends

Golden State’s selection of Richard fills a clear organizational need for reliable wing depth. Over the past few seasons, injuries, roster turnover, and the natural aging curve of their core players have exposed gaps in the Warriors’ perimeter rotation. While Jonathan Kuminga has made strides and Moses Moody continues to develop, the team lacked a consistent 3-and-D option beyond its established veterans.

Richard’s ability to hit spot-up threes, defend multiple positions, and make smart, low-mistake decisions makes him an ideal candidate to earn minutes within Steve Kerr’s rotation. His versatility allows the Warriors to mix and match lineups, giving Kerr more flexibility when managing the workload of older stars like Curry and Green.

Beyond his on-court fit, Richard brings an understated competitive edge that has quietly defined his basketball journey. At Florida, he often took on the toughest defensive assignments, guarded both wings and smaller guards, and embraced doing the “little things” — qualities that translate well to a Warriors culture built on selflessness and team-first basketball.

Building on the Gators’ Legacy

For Florida basketball, Richard’s draft selection marks a proud moment for a program that has been steadily rebuilding its national reputation. The Gators have sent several players to the NBA over the years, but Richard’s development stands out as a testament to both his work ethic and the player development infrastructure in Gainesville.

Todd Golden, known for his analytical approach and emphasis on player growth, frequently spoke about Richard’s professional potential throughout the 2024-25 season. The coaching staff entrusted Richard with significant responsibilities, both as a defensive stopper and an offensive contributor, helping him prepare for the rigors of the next level.

In many ways, Richard embodies the new blueprint for college prospects aiming for the NBA — maximize your strengths, master your role, and showcase maturity that organizations covet in role players. His steady production, defensive commitment, and shooting efficiency made him an attractive option for a playoff-caliber team like Golden State that prioritizes immediate impact over raw upside.

What Comes Next for Will Richard

While second-round picks often face uphill battles to secure roster spots, Richard’s draft position with the Warriors gives him a legitimate pathway to NBA minutes. Golden State’s coaching staff, renowned for player development, will likely integrate Richard into Summer League action, providing early opportunities to acclimate to the speed and physicality of the professional game.

His success at the next level will hinge on several key factors:

Consistent Shooting: Maintaining his high three-point percentage is critical, particularly given the Warriors’ reliance on floor spacing. If Richard can become a reliable catch-and-shoot threat, he immediately increases his value.

Defensive Versatility: His ability to guard both point guards and wings will dictate how many lineups Kerr can comfortably insert him into, especially during high-stakes moments.

Basketball IQ: Thriving within the Warriors’ motion offense requires quick reads, smart cuts, and unselfish decision-making — all areas Richard has shown proficiency in but will need to elevate against NBA competition.

Physical Development: At 206 pounds, Richard possesses a solid frame for an NBA wing, but adding strength without sacrificing mobility will help him handle more physically imposing matchups.

Golden State has historically turned overlooked prospects into valuable contributors, from Draymond Green’s ascent as a second-round pick to Kevon Looney’s development into a trusted big man. Richard will hope to follow that tradition, leveraging the Warriors’ resources and mentorship from veterans to carve out his niche.

Fan and Analyst Reactions

The reaction to Richard’s selection has been largely positive, especially among Warriors faithful eager to see young players capable of immediate contribution. Analysts have pointed to his floor-spacing potential, defensive awareness, and low-maintenance style of play as ideal complements to Golden State’s established stars.

Social media buzzed with Florida fans celebrating another Gator making the leap to the NBA, while Warriors insiders highlighted Richard’s reputation as a “high-character, low-ego” addition who fits seamlessly into the team’s culture.

For Richard himself, the moment represents the culmination of years of work, belief, and perseverance. In post-draft interviews, he expressed gratitude to Florida’s coaching staff, teammates, and fans, emphasizing his excitement to join a franchise with such a storied championship pedigree.

“I’ve always admired the Warriors for the way they play the game — unselfish, smart, and with a chip on their shoulder,” Richard said. “To be a part of that culture is a dream come true. I’m ready to work, learn, and do whatever it takes to help the team win.”

A New Chapter in the Bay

With his selection, Will Richard steps into a golden opportunity — both figuratively and literally — joining a Warriors team seeking to extend its dynasty window while injecting youthful energy into its roster.

The challenges ahead are significant, as competition for minutes will be fierce and the adjustment to NBA speed is daunting. But Richard’s track record suggests he embraces hard work, thrives in defined roles, and elevates his game alongside elite talent — precisely what Golden State expects from its newest Gator-turned-Warrior.

As the 2025-26 season approaches, all eyes will be on Summer League, training camp, and preseason action to see if Richard can translate his collegiate success to the professional stage. If he does, the Warriors may have found yet another second-round gem to strengthen their pursuit of another championship.