Warriors Rookie Will Richard Shines Despite Tough Loss to Kings
In a challenging game at the Golden 1 Center against the Sacramento Kings, Warriors rookie Will Richard delivered a standout performance that coach Steve Kerr had been eager to see. Despite missing their three top players, Kerr viewed the game as an opportunity to evaluate new player combinations and give younger talent more court time.
Richard’s Breakout Performance
Making his first NBA start, the 22-year-old from Georgia impressed with a season-high 30 points, including five 3-pointers, helping the Warriors keep the game close in a 121-116 loss.
“Will Richard was exactly what Kerr was hoping to see.”
Richard’s 30-point effort put him in a rare group among Warriors rookies:
- First Warriors player drafted in the second round or later to score 20+ points in his first start since Eric Paschall in 2019.
- Matched the second-highest point total in a first Warriors start, with only Anthony Morrow holding the record at 37 points. John Lucas also scored 30 in his debut start.
Coach’s Perspective
Kerr looked for positives in a tough lineup situation, highlighting the chance to review different lineups and see what potential the team's younger players hold.
“The Warriors missing their three best players offered a chance for the coach to get an extended look at different combinations and some of Golden State’s younger players.”
Additional Coverage
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Summary: Will Richard’s impressive 30-point debut start provided a promising glimpse of the future amid the Warriors’ difficult loss to the Kings.