Will Richard, a former University of Florida standout, delivered an impressive performance in his first NBA start on Wednesday. He scored 30 points on 10-of-15 shooting, including 5-of-8 from beyond the arc, along with seven rebounds and three assists in 35 minutes. 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, due to injuries to key players Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green, Richard was given the opportunity to start, and he made the most of it.
“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 Warriors, holding a 5-4 record, are set to face the Denver Nuggets at 10 p.m.
Author's summary: Will Richard seized his first NBA start with a standout 30-point effort for the Warriors, proving his readiness amid key player injuries.