Will Richard Finds NBA Success with Golden State Warriors
Since leaving Florida, Will Richard has established himself with the Golden State Warriors in the NBA. Although he was a second-round pick, Richard quickly earned consistent playing time under coach Steve Kerr and has become one of the best early finds in the 2025 NBA Draft.
Nickname and Team Integration
Richard shared with San Francisco's 95.7 The Game how his teammates have given him a fitting nickname that links back to his Florida roots:
“They call Al [Horford] 'Big Gator,' so I'm 'Baby Gator' right now. It's either 'Rook' or 'Baby Gator.'”
Connection to Al Horford
His teammate Al Horford, another former Florida standout, recently joined Golden State after playing for Boston. This pairing creates a unique generational link:
- Horford is in his 19th NBA season
- Richard is in his rookie year
- Horford won Florida's first national title in 2006, when Richard was 3 years old
Playing with NBA Veterans
Richard also reflected on the opportunity to play alongside seasoned stars like Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Jimmy Butler:
“I grew up watching these guys. To be able to witness their greatness every game, every practice, it's a blessing to be a part of. I take a step back every day and realize how thankful I am to be in this situation.”
Through six games, Richard is averaging 5.7 points in about 13 minutes per game, showing promising early production for a rookie.
Author's summary: Will Richard quickly earned the nickname "Baby Gator" and carved a role on the Warriors, thriving alongside veteran stars and former Gator Al Horford early in his rookie NBA season.