It's time to talk some Richie Saunders. The junior wing out of Wasatch Academy has been a fan favorite since last season, where his undying hustle and tenacity in every aspect of the game drew the attention of the college basketball world.
BYU nearly lost Saunders to the transfer portal last season, as the coaching carousel placed Mark Pope in Kentucky with a strong push to draw his former player to Lexington. We were relieved that he stayed initially. We're overjoyed he's a Cougar today.
Big 12 powers that be, if you're listening to me today, I formally submit my early application for BYU's Richie Saunders to be considered as an All-Big 12 caliber player.
Averaging 13.9 points on lethal 50.9/42.9/68.2 shooting splits (2pt, 3pt, FT) to to pair with his 1.9 stocks and 4.1 rebounds, Richie is getting it done for his rookie head coach and still-meshing teammates.
Fresh off the inaugural conference matchup with Arizona State, Saunders dropped a career-high 30 points, 6 rebounds, a steal, and a block, with zero turnovers in 30 minutes of play. He was a critical reason why the Cougars walked out of the Marriott Center with a 20-point margin of victory.
Here's the best part: stats have never been the best part of his game. The cornerstone of Richie's value is his intangibles. Hustle, drive, and an unrelenting will to make winning plays in every facet. Loose ball? Saunders is diving on it. Off-ball action? Already moving. A gritty, physical player who isn't afraid to take it to the rim, and more than happy to shoot it over the top (need I remind you that he's shooting 43% from distance this year).
Last season, the Cougars earned four honorable mentions when the All-Big 12 teams were announced: Dallin Hall, Fousseyni Traore, Jaxson Robinson, and Spencer Johnson. If his output maintains through the rest of the Big 12, honorable mention won't be enough.
Richie maybe be All-Big 12 when it’s all said and done. https://t.co/ZBoMgQV9U5
— Lawless Republic (@LawlessRepublic) January 1, 2025
Richie Saunders should be in All-Big 12 consideration--there are 3 teams, 15 spots. One of those seats better read "Reserved For Richie Saunders".