SEC Basketball: 5 most underrated transfers heading into 2022-23 season

MADISON, WISCONSIN - DECEMBER 29: Antonio Reeves #12 of the Illinois State Redbirds dribbles the basketball up court during the first half of the game against the Wisconsin Badgers at Kohl Center on December 29, 2021 in Madison, Wisconsin. Badgers defeated the Redbirds 89-85. (Photo by John Fisher/Getty Images) /

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Belmont Bruins guard Will Richard Steve Roberts-USA TODAY Sports /

5. G Will Richard, Florida

The Florida Gators were all over the guards in the transfer portal, bringing in four of them. Kyle Lofton and Alex Fudge rightfully get the headlines but don’t sleep on Will Richard.

Richard was one of the first to commit to Todd Golden after he took over for the departing Mike White. The 6-foot-4 guard showed signs of becoming a star during his freshman season with Belmont.

During his lone season with the Bruins, Richard averaged 12.1 points and 6.0 rebounds per game, helping to propel the team to an NIT bid. He started 30 games and was named to the Ohio Valley All-Newcomer Team.

Richard also proved to be a good shooter from all parts of the court, hitting 46.8 percent of his shots and more than 80 percent of his free throws. With his size and shooting abilities, he should have little issue contributing to the Gators immediately.

There’s an outside shot at Richard earning a starting spot, though that feels like something that would be more likely in the succeeding season. Instead, Richard should be one of the first guards off the bench for Golden’s team.

Regardless of where he contributes, Richard is going to battle for minutes immediately. There are some out there who think Richard has a pro future and Florida will be the first chance for him to make that case at a higher level.

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