Will Richard Scores 30 Points in First NBA Start
Florida Gators standout Will Richard experienced a memorable Wednesday with the Golden State Warriors. The rookie guard made his first NBA start and scored a career-high 30 points in a 121-116 loss to the Sacramento Kings.
“Will was amazing,” Warriors coach Steve Kerr said. “This guy, from the beginning of camp, has shown he’s an NBA player. The experience, the poise, he doesn’t turn it over, he makes the right play. He can handle the ball under pressure, he makes the right pass. This guy’s a hell of a player.”
Background and Draft Details
Richard, a 6-foot-3 guard, played a vital role in Florida’s 2025 national championship team. He was selected by the Memphis Grizzlies with the 56th pick in the 2025 NBA draft and subsequently traded to Golden State.
Early Season Performance
After a strong preseason showing, Richard started the 2025-2026 season averaging 5.7 points per game in October. However, he was a healthy scratch for the two games immediately before his first start.
Breakout Game Highlights
- Scored 30 points on 10 of 15 shooting
- Made 5 of 8 three-pointers
- Collected 7 rebounds
- Recorded 3 assists
With three players unavailable, Coach Kerr gave Richard the starting role, and he responded with a career-best performance.
Source: NBCsportsbayarea
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