Richie Saunders' journey from a passionate BYU Cougars fan to a standout collegiate player and a burgeoning NBA Draft prospect is a compelling narrative woven with dedication, visualization, and undeniable skill. As the 2026 NBA Draft approaches, scouts and analysts are increasingly taking notice of the BYU senior, who has not only lived out his childhood dream but has also developed into a player with a significant professional upside.
From Dreamer to Star: The BYU Connection
Growing up in Utah, Richie Saunders' path was, in many ways, preordained. Inspired by his father, Rich Saunders, a former basketball player at UC Davis, Richie embraced the power of visualization from a young age. His dream was clear: to play for his beloved BYU Cougars. This powerful mental imagery, coupled with relentless hard work, guided his development through high school, including a stint at Wasatch Academy, where he emerged as a highly-touted three-star prospect.
Saunders not only committed to BYU but has since become an integral part of the team's success. His contributions have been pivotal in the Cougars' aspirations for deep tournament runs over the past few seasons. His collegiate accolades speak volumes, including being named First-Team All-Big 12 and the Big 12 Most Improved Player last season. He's continued to elevate his game in his senior year, showcasing impressive all-around statistics.
Statistical Standout: Senior Season Performance
In his current senior campaign, Saunders is averaging a robust 18.8 points per game (PPG), 6.0 rebounds per game (RPG), 2.2 assists per game (APG), and 1.8 steals per game (SPG). His efficiency is equally noteworthy, with shooting splits of 48.9% from the field, 37.6% from three-point range, and 81.7% from the free-throw line. These numbers paint a picture of a player who is not only scoring effectively but also contributing across the board, making him a valuable asset for BYU.
The NBA Carrying Tool: Elite Three-Point Shooting
When evaluating Richie Saunders' potential for the NBA, one attribute stands out as his undisputed "carrying tool": his exceptional three-point shooting. This is his primary value driver, a skill honed through countless hours of practice and visualization. Saunders boasts a career three-point percentage of 38.7% on over 500 attempts. This season, he's maintaining a strong 37.6% from deep, taking on a career-high volume of 7.1 attempts per game, a testament to his confidence and coachability.
His shooting mechanics are described as compact and repeatable, featuring a high, quick release that allows him to get shots off against tight defense. The range on his shot is impressive, and his confidence is evident, as evidenced by his ability to maintain his form whether shooting off the dribble, off the catch, or on the move. His proficiency in various shooting scenarios – 41.7% on spot-up threes, 45.9% on unguarded catch-and-shoot attempts, and an outstanding 52.4% on transition threes – further solidifies his status as a sharpshooting wing.
While his shooting is elite, there's an area for further development: his ability to shoot off the pick-and-roll as the ball-handler. Though the volume has been low at the collegiate level (2-of-11 over the past two seasons), the foundational shooting skills suggest that with dedicated reps, he could become a reliable weapon in this area as well.
Ancillary Offensive Skills: Beyond the Shot
Saunders' offensive game extends well beyond his shooting prowess. His gravity on the court, a direct result of his shooting threat, opens up opportunities for him to attack closeouts and excel in handoff situations. He effectively utilizes a potent shot fake, drawing defenders in and creating openings for drives to the basket or pull-up jumpers. At the rim, he converts 59.4% of his attempts in the halfcourt, often surprising opponents with his vertical pop and strength.
While not considered an advanced passer, Saunders is a trustworthy connective passer. His ability to read the floor after attacking closeouts allows him to make solid decisions on drive-and-kick plays and drop-offs. He can effectively execute handoffs, find the rolling big man, or kick it back out to the perimeter. Furthermore, his willingness to make the extra pass and find cutters, both off the dribble and from a standstill, adds another layer to his offensive contribution.
His value on the offensive glass is also noteworthy. While his per-game numbers might not scream "elite rebounder," Saunders is a factor in securing crucial offensive boards. His career-high of six offensive rebounds in a single game and his high ranking on the BYU team for offensive rebounds highlight his tenacity and hustle on the boards.
Defensive Value: A Surprising Asset
At 24 years old, one might question the defensive upside of a player whose primary strength is shooting. However, Richie Saunders brings tangible defensive value, primarily through defensive playmaking and rebounding. While he may not be a lockdown, highly switchable on-ball defender due to limitations in lateral quickness, his physical tools and competitive spirit are assets.
His quick hands, a potentially strong frame, and projectable length, combined with his competitive drive, equip him to be an adequate defensive playmaker. His 2.1 stocks (steals + blocks) per game indicate his ability to disrupt opposing offenses. His hustle on the defensive end, coupled with his rebounding, makes him a valuable team defender who contributes to winning basketball.
NBA Outlook: A Potential Steal
As Richie Saunders closes out his collegiate career, evaluators are tasked with projecting his impact at the NBA level. His elite shooting is a coveted skill in today's league, and his ability to attack closeouts and contribute as a playmaker makes him more than just a one-dimensional threat. His experience, maturity, and proven ability to produce at a high level in a competitive conference like the Big 12 further enhance his draft stock.
Saunders embodies the spirit of a player who has meticulously worked towards his goals. His journey, fueled by visualization and a relentless pursuit of excellence, has positioned him as a player with the potential to be a significant contributor in the NBA. For teams looking for a skilled shooter with secondary playmaking abilities and a strong competitive drive, Richie Saunders could very well be the steal of the 2026 NBA Draft.
