Will Richard delivered an impressive performance for the Golden State Warriors in his NBA starting debut on Wednesday. The former Florida Gators standout scored 30 points on 10-of-15 shooting, including 5-of-8 from beyond the arc. He also grabbed seven rebounds and provided three assists during 35 minutes of play. Despite his efforts, the Warriors lost 121-116 to the Sacramento Kings.
Richard did not participate in the Warriors' previous two games, where the team went 1-1. However, with key players Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green sidelined due to injuries, Richard was inserted into the lineup and rose to the occasion with a strong performance.
"He’s shown he’s an NBA player," said Warriors coach Steve Kerr. "The experience, the poise – he doesn’t turn it over, he makes the right play. This guy’s a hell of a player."
The Sacramento Kings were led by former NBA MVP Russell Westbrook, who recorded his 204th career triple-double, the most in NBA history, finishing with 23 points, 16 rebounds, and 10 assists.
The Warriors, holding a 5-4 record, will next play the Denver Nuggets at 10 p.m.
Category: Former Gators, Gators Men's Basketball, NBA
Summary: Will Richard’s remarkable 30-point debut for the Warriors highlights his readiness as a top-level NBA player amid the team’s injury challenges.