The Warriors are a veteran-laden team entering the 2025-26 NBA season, but coach Steve Kerr is just as excited about the youth at his disposal.
Speaking to “The TK Show” host Tim Kawakami, Kerr raved about rookie guard Will Richard, the 56th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
“[Richard is] a great young guy,” Kerr told Kawakami. “Totally engaged. Got good size, can shoot it well and he’s just such a sponge. He’s so coachable. I think he has got a future.”
The 22-year-old, 6-foot-4 Richard brings plenty of collegiate experience with him into the professional ranks. He played his freshman season at Belmont University in Tennessee before transferring to the University of Florida, where he started 105 games over his final three seasons of college play.
His success with the Gators led the Memphis Grizzlies to select Richard in the second round of June’s NBA Draft. Memphis then traded Richard’s rights to the Warriors, where he will learn from veteran stalwarts like Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, Jimmy Butler and Al Horford. And while the presence of those established stars will make it difficult for Richard to find playing time this upcoming season, Kerr is bullish on his long-term prospects.
“Usually, guys in their rookie years, it takes time,” Kerr told Kawakami. “So, I don’t anticipate Will playing any time soon. He’ll certainly see some time in Santa Cruz to get lots of playing time. He’s impressive and I think we really like him.”
It’s clear Richard already has endeared himself to his coach and one of his star teammates. Now, it’s up to the rookie to validate the organization’s excitement.
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