Preseason NBA Stars with Gator Roots

Three former University of Florida Gators, renowned for their impressive college basketball accomplishments, have progressed to the NBA. These players, Will Richard, Walter Clayton Jr., and Alijah Martin, were key guards in Florida’s national championship team and have already started making their mark in the preseason games.

Richard’s Rising Influence with the Golden State Warriors

Will Richard, chosen in the second round by the Golden State Warriors, has quickly impressed Head Coach Steve Kerr. Notable for his increasing playing time, Richard saw a jump from 15 to 29 minutes per game in recent outings. Kerr’s confidence is evident, as he stated he wouldn’t hesitate to play Richard, particularly after his standout performance against the Portland Trailblazers. During this game, Richard scored 13 points, had six assists, and two rebounds. His ability to calm the game and adapt to the Warriors’ strategies has been key to gaining Kerr’s trust.

Clayton’s Notable Start with the Utah Jazz

Walter Clayton Jr., the most highly drafted Gator in 2025, joined the Utah Jazz as the 18th pick. Clayton has played well over 27 minutes and maintained a perfect free throw shooting percentage. His adaptation to NBA pace is evident in his seven-assist performance against the San Antonio Spurs. Despite challenges with the shot clock and the transition from college, Clayton shows potential for growth with guidance from veteran teammates. His career-high of 20 points against the Spurs included an impressive 50% field goal rate.

Martin’s Steady Progress with the Toronto Raptors

Alijah Martin, selected by the Toronto Raptors in the second round, showcased his skills during the NBA Summer League. His debut against the Chicago Bulls highlighted his potential with 16 points, five assists, and five rebounds. Although his preseason performances have been less consistent, he still contributed significantly against the Boston Celtics. Martin’s nine points, including signature fastbreak dunks, hint at his ability to contribute off the bench.

Gators Making Strides in Their NBA Careers

With a couple of weeks left before the regular season, these Gators alumni are already making notable impacts. Their early performances underscore the skills honed during their college careers and promise intriguing developments as they further integrate into their respective NBA teams.