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Steph Curry on Will Richard’s early rise: 'He’s a champion for a reason'

79417-removebg-preview (1)by: Corey Bender11 hours agoCorey_Bender
Will Richard
© Bob Kupbens-Imagn Images

Golden State rookie Will Richard continues to earn respect in his first NBA season, this time from one of the game’s biggest stars.

After coach Steve Kerr praised Richard earlier in the week, Stephen Curry joined in with strong words following the Warriors’ 137-131 overtime win over the Denver Nuggets on Thursday night.

Curry carried Golden State with 42 points, seven assists and six rebounds, while Richard added six points, five rebounds, three assists and a steal in nearly 17 minutes off the bench. His clutch 3-pointer in the fourth quarter helped the Warriors erase an 11-point deficit and force overtime.

“There is something about winning players at whatever level,” Curry said. “He’s a champion for a reason down there in Florida. Guys who played some significant high-stakes basketball in college, that still matters. I know the league has gotten younger in the draft, but when you find a guy like that who just understands basketball…he sees the game really well. He is fearless. The lights aren’t too bright for him.”

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Richard debuted with the Warriors on Tuesday in a win over the Los Angeles Lakers, recording five points, one rebound, one assist and one steal. He hit two fourth-quarter threes in that game and was awarded the game ball for his performance.

Richard continued his steady play Friday night, finishing with seven points, two rebounds, two assists and two steals in a 139-119 loss to Portland. He shot 2-of-4 from the field and 1-of-3 from beyond the arc in 25 minutes.

The 56th overall pick has shown why Golden State views him as a long-term 3-and-D piece. He impressed throughout the preseason and quickly earned a spot in the rotation. The Warriors coach even said Richard “looks like he is in his seventh year.” That’s high praise for someone still finding his footing in the league.

Before arriving in the NBA, Richard built a reputation for toughness and winning at Florida. He played a major role in Florida winning a national championship, finishing his college career with more than 1,000 points. His poise and defensive effort in Gainesville are already translating to the professional level, and the Warriors are taking notice.

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