'Unbelievable performance': Steph Curry praises Will Richard after return to lineup

Will Richard stayed patient. When his opportunity returned, he made sure it mattered.

After spending several games out of Golden State’s rotation, the former Florida Gators standout delivered a performance that helped the Warriors steady themselves and pick up a win over the Phoenix Suns. Richard scored 20 points on 6-of-7 shooting, including a perfect 4-of-4 from 3-point range.

Richard opened the game by hitting his first six shots and did not miss until late in the fourth quarter. His scoring and energy gave Golden State a lift and helped swing momentum in a tight contest.

“Unbelievable performance coming off an extended time not being in the rotation,” Steph Curry said after Saturday’s game. “The way he played, not just his scoring, but just his presence all over the floor.”

The performance stood out even more considering Richard had not played in nearly two weeks. His last appearance came earlier in December, but there was no sign of rust. He looked comfortable, confident, and aggressive from the opening tip.

Steve Kerr explains the rotation change

Golden State head coach Steve Kerr said the decision to put Richard back in the rotation was about giving the team a spark, and the rookie quickly showed why he deserved the opportunity.

“I sat Will the last five or six games and we needed to get him back out there,” Kerr said. “You can see why.”

Will Richard was staying ready behind the scenes

Richard said his preparation during the time away from the floor helped him stay ready. Even without minutes, he kept his routine the same and stayed locked in.

“Working out a lot. Afternoon shootaround, I was at every one of those,” Richard said. “I knew my time was going to be called so I had to be ready when my time.”

One of the biggest moments came after Richard knocked down a key 3-pointer in the second half. He turned toward the crowd at Chase Center as the arena erupted, a reminder of how quickly roles can change in the NBA.

Keeping the focus simple

For Richard, the moment was not about personal validation.

“Just trying to win,” Richard said. “I don’t really think a lot when I’m out there. I’m just trying to win games.”

Richard’s latest showing fits into a productive rookie season when he has been given opportunities. He is averaging 8.5 points, 2.8 rebounds and 1.0 assist per game while shooting 55 percent from the field. Earlier this season, he scored a career-high 30 points on Nov. 5 in a loss to Sacramento, offering another glimpse of his scoring potential.

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