Florida’s “Big Three” guards from the national championship-winning men’s basketball team—Will Richard, Walter Clayton Jr., and Alijah Martin—have all made their mark in the early stages of their NBA careers. Two weeks into the preseason, each player has seen increased playing time and has begun to carve out important roles on their respective teams.
Will Richard, selected in the second round by the Golden State Warriors, has quickly gained the trust of head coach Steve Kerr. Over the course of four preseason games, Richard’s playing time has grown from 15 to 29 minutes, culminating in a starting role in his latest game against the Portland Trail Blazers. In that matchup, he showcased his skills, scoring 13 points with an impressive 60% shooting from three-point range, alongside six assists and two rebounds. Richard attributed his rapid adaptation to the team’s dynamics to his inquisitive nature during training camp, stating, “I’ve just been asking a lot of questions.” Kerr’s confidence in Richard is evident as he mentioned, “I won’t hesitate to put him out there.”
Walter Clayton Jr. has also made headlines after being drafted 18th overall to the Utah Jazz. The highest-picked Gator in the 2025 draft is averaging 27 minutes per game and boasting a perfect free throw percentage. Despite struggling with his three-point shooting, Clayton has still been a key contributor, most notably with a career-high 20 points, five assists, and only two turnovers in a recent game against the San Antonio Spurs. He’s acknowledged the adjustments he must make as he transitions to the NBA, particularly in managing the six-second shot clock, and emphasized the support he’s receiving from veteran players on the Jazz.
Alijah Martin, selected by the Toronto Raptors, had an explosive debut in the NBA Summer League, posting 16 points, five assists, and five rebounds in a decisive victory against the Chicago Bulls. However, his impact has waned during the preseason, though he enjoyed a noteworthy performance against the Boston Celtics, scoring nine points in 20 minutes of play. His highlight came with a signature fastbreak dunk, which excited fans and showcased his athleticism.
As the regular season approaches, each of these former Gators is beginning to establish their presence in the NBA. With their growing confidence and performance, fans are hopeful that Richard, Clayton, and Martin will continue to evolve and succeed at the professional level. The early signs are promising, signaling exciting careers ahead for these talented players.