After leaving Florida, Will Richard has quickly settled into a role with the Golden State Warriors. Despite being a second-round pick, he has earned consistent playing time under coach Steve Kerr and is emerging as one of the standout steals of the 2025 NBA Draft.
Richard spoke with San Francisco's 95.7 The Game about his integration with the team and revealed the nickname his new teammates have given him:
"They call Al [Horford] 'Big Gator,' so I'm 'Baby Gator' right now. It's either 'Rook' or 'Baby Gator.'"
In a meaningful connection, Richard now plays alongside Al Horford, a former Florida standout who joined Golden State after time with Boston. Horford is in his 19th NBA season, while Richard is just starting his career. Notably, when Horford won Florida's first national title in 2006, Richard was only three years old.
Richard also shared his appreciation for playing with seasoned players like Steph 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."
Six games into his NBA career, Richard is averaging 5.7 points per game in about 13 minutes per contest, showing promising potential as his role expands.
Author's summary: Will Richard, known as "Baby Gator," is impressing early in his rookie season with Golden State, earning minutes alongside NBA veterans and building on his Florida roots.