🌉 DUB NATION BREAKTHROUGH: Florida Gators’s Will Richard Drafted by Golden State Warriors—A Stunning Return Home for Championship-Winning Guard Picked No. 56 in 2025 NBA Draft, Signaling Gators-to–Warriors Pipeline and Defensive Versatility Revolution
SAN FRANCISCO/GATORS NATION (June 27–30, 2025) — In a feel-good draft night story, the Golden State Warriors selected Will Richard, the championship-winning guard from the Florida Gators, with the 56th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. Originally surged by the Memphis Grizzlies, Richard’s rights were swiftly traded to Golden State in a savvy second-round maneuver—capping a celebratory moment in both Florida and the Bay Area.
—
🔍 Surging Up the Draft Board
The Warriors executed a strategic draft-day sequence:
Golden State traded its 41st pick to Phoenix, obtaining picks No. 52 and No. 56.
With No. 52, they chose Australian forward Alex Toohey, then used No. 56 to select Will Richard—the sharpshooting, lockdown Gator standout.
General Manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. explained the move as a value-based decision amid a moderately weak mid-round, highlighting Richard for his defensive versatility and three-and-D skill set—attributes central to the Warriors’ system.
—
⛹️ Will Richard’s Collegiate Legacy
A 6‑foot‑4 shooting guard, Richard rose to fame at Florida:
2024–25 stats: Averaged 13.3 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 1.9 APG; shot .487 FG, .359 3PT, .840 FT over 40 games.
Was instrumental in Florida’s 2025 NCAA Championship—notably scoring 18 points and executing a game-clinching steal in the final seconds against Houston.
🛡️ NBA-Ready Skill Set
Richard brings several strengths:
Length & Defense: Possesses a 6‑foot‑10 wingspan, enabling elite perimeter defense.
Efficient Shooting: A smart catch-and-shoot guard with solid shooting splits; could evolve into a reliable role player.
High Basketball IQ: Described by Coach Todd Golden as a “light bulb” with strong situational awareness.
—
🏀 Why This Pick Matters
1. Gator-to-Warriors Pipeline
Richard adds to a growing legacy of Florida players in Golden State, following past draftees, and underscores the synergy between the programs.
2. Strategic Drafting
The Warriors’ double-dip strategy demonstrates a preference for cost-effective, high-potential role players that fit their culture.
3. Depth & Versatility
Richard’s defensive acumen and shooting/slashing skill set align with Golden State’s style, enhancing their squad depth and wing options.
—
🗣️ What Analysts Say
Reuters praised the pick as a “well-rounded two-way prospect” ideal for the Warriors.
Bleacher Report compared him to Courtney Lee and noted his versatility and wingspan give him NBA sticking power despite slight positional drawbacks.
—
🎯 The Road Ahead for Richard
2025–26 Season: Expected to undergo development in Summer League (July 5–20) with Golden State’s Las Vegas team and the Santa Cruz Warriors, focusing on improving shooting and playmaking.
Long-Term Outlook: A solid two-way rotational player is anticipated within 1–2 seasons. He’ll need to refine his handle and passing to expand his role.
—
📝 Final Word
Will Richard’s draft journey—from NCAA champion to Golden State pick—captures the appeal of role-player archetypes: smart, defensively savvy, and efficient. His arrival strengthens the Gators’ pro representation while offering the Warriors athletic depth.
Richard’s rise reminds us that championship pedigree and versatile skill can open NBA doors—even in the late second round. As he joins Dub Nation, both Florida fans and Warriors supporters have reason to be excited. The next chapter starts in Vegas and ends in the Chase Center—and it’ll be one to watch.
Leave a Reply