As March approaches, NBA front offices aren’t just watching team results, they’re studying who rises when the lights get brightest.
For Billy Richmond III, that stage could be the launching pad that sends his draft stock soaring.
Arkansas X-Factor Heating Up at the Right Time
Richmond has already begun turning heads with his recent surge. Increased minutes and opportunity have unlocked another level in his game, and the production is impossible to ignore.
NBA draft analyst Jonathan Wasserman recently posted on X:
“Billy Richmond erupting offensively lately with 4 consecutive 20+ point games. Such effective physical and athletic ability at 6-6 with his first step, long strides and explosion/coordination at the rim. Of course shooting will be key but he's 15-22 on mid-range jumpers, 77% FTs.”
Billy Richmond erupting offensively lately with 4 consecutive 20+ point games. Such effective physical and athletic ability at 6-6 with his first step, long strides and explosion/coordination at the rim. Of course shooting will be key but he's 15-22 on mid-range jumpers, 77% FTs. pic.twitter.com/MDROuGwWYo
— Jonathan Wasserman (@NBADraftWass) February 26, 2026
When Wasserman speaks publicly about a prospect’s upward trajectory, it carries weight. He maintains direct communication with NBA scouts and evaluators, often reflecting what front offices are already discussing internally.
For Richmond to be highlighted now signals real momentum.
Traits NBA Teams Covet
At 6-foot-6 with length, burst, and downhill acceleration, Richmond fits the modern wing mold. His first step creates separation. His long strides eat up space in transition. And once he gets into the paint, his coordination and explosion make him a legitimate finisher.
The biggest question surrounding Richmond entering the season was offensive consistency, particularly shooting.
Lately, he’s answered that.
Four straight 20+ point games and shooting 64.6% from the field during that stretch.
That’s development in real time.
And it’s not just about scoring. Richmond’s defensive versatility and physical tools give him two-way appeal. NBA teams consistently prioritize wings who can guard multiple positions, play through contact, and contribute without needing the ball every possession. The more versatile a player is, the more valuable he becomes.
Richmond checks those boxes.
The Arkansas Razorbacks are trending toward an NCAA Tournament berth and if Arkansas makes a deep run in March Madness, Richmond will have the national spotlight.
That’s where draft narratives can shift dramatically.
Those performances linger in war rooms.
NBA evaluators don’t just scout tools, they scout composure in the big moments and how the player handles it. Richmond’s upward trend, combined with team success, creates the perfect environment for his stock to skyrocket.
What makes Richmond’s situation even more compelling is timing. He’s peaking as Arkansas is peaking. Momentum feeds momentum. Scouts will be intrigued by his physical profile and will end up getting to see his production under the bright lights very soon.
And in the draft process, perception can shift quickly.
Right now, Billy Richmond III is no longer just an intriguing athlete.
He’s becoming a rising prospect.