The Golden State Warriors signed Will Richard, the No. 56 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, to a four-year contract with two full years guaranteed, just days before training camp. Such a contract is typically not given to a late second-round pick, but the Warriors have done so with hopes that Richard can turn into their version of Alex Caruso, the two-time NBA champion who went undrafted in 2016.
Much like Caruso, Richard possesses the versatility and positional size to develop into an elite 3-and-D player in the NBA, traits he displayed during his four-year college stint with the Florida Gators and again in the NBA Las Vegas Summer League.
Richard, who has a 6-foot-10 wingspan, averaged 10.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 2.3 steals in the Summer League, producing many highlight plays on the defensive end and earning the praise of head coach Steve Kerr’s staff in Las Vegas.
Will Richard: Elite Defender in College
Shortly before the 2025 NBA Draft, Richard drew comparisons with Alex Caruso and Malik Beasley for his physical traits and skill set.
“Richard is a prototypical 3-and-D prospect,” read his NBA.com draft profile.
“He showed the ability to play off the dribble in college but was more efficient in catch-and-shoot situations. Richard won’t be a stellar athlete in the NBA, but he has the lateral quickness and instincts to be a solid perimeter defender.”
“Richard shares physical traits and a skill set with 3-and-D guys like Malik Beasley and Alex Caruso. He’s projected as a second-round pick and will likely begin his career off the bench.”
Richard played a vital role in the Florida Gators’ 2024-25 NCAA title victory, producing key defensive plays in the clutch in their 65-63 win over the Houston Cougars. With 46.5 seconds left in the game, the Cougars had the opportunity to take the lead, but were forced into a live ball turnover courtesy of Richard’s elite defense.
Warriors Have Two Roster Spots Left
Richard also posted 18 points (4-of-4 from three) during the NCAA title victory, proving to be a player who thrives under the brightest lights.
“Richard stepped things up as a senior, averaging 13.3 points on 49/36/84 shooting splits, 4.6 rebounds, 1.9 assists and 1.7 steals in 31.6 minutes per game,” wrote NBA.com. “He was a key player for the 2024-25 national champions, posting 18 points (4-for-4 on 3s) in Florida’s 65-63 comeback win over Houston in the title game. Richard shot 39.8% from deep on 4.0 attempts per game during his first season for the Gators and shot 35.5% overall in college.”
The signings / verbal commitments of Al Horford, DeAnthony Melton, Will Richard and Gary Payton II mean the Warriors roster has 13 guaranteed players entering the 2025-26 season, with Jonathan Kuminga the presumed 14th player.
Kuminga, of course, remains embattled in a contract dispute with the Warriors, and could potentially sign his $7.9M qualifying offer before the Oct. 1 deadline.
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