Richie Saunders, a standout guard for BYU, has cultivated a storied career since joining the Cougars as a freshman during one of the team’s most challenging seasons. The 2022-23 BYU squad, which Saunders played for, finished with a losing record in the West Coast Conference, marking a significant low for the program. However, his journey has been anything but ordinary, and he has transformed from being part of a rebuilding team to a key player contributing to a No. 22-ranked BYU team with aspirations for a deep run in the NCAA Tournament.
This Saturday, the Cougars, currently boasting an 18-6 record and a 6-5 conference mark, are set to face Colorado at the Marriott Center. They will look to build momentum after recently breaking a four-game losing streak with a victory over Baylor. With seven games remaining in the regular season, Saunders, now a senior, is poised to solidify his place among the program’s greats. He has already amassed 1,544 career points, ranking him seventh among BYU players since 2000, and has been recognized with an All-Big 12 First Team selection and a Sweet 16 appearance.
Reflecting on his growth, Saunders recalled moments of doubt during his time at BYU, notably after a tough loss to Pepperdine in 2023. He emphasizes how those challenging experiences contributed to his resilience and the overall development of the program. His enduring commitment to BYU is notable, especially after navigating coaching changes and considering an early entry into the NBA draft after a strong junior season where he averaged 16.5 points per game and shot 43.2% from beyond the arc. Ultimately, his loyalty to the school he grew up idolizing kept him in Provo.
Saunders has become a beloved figure among fans, and his coach, Kevin Young, praises his work ethic and the perseverance that has propelled him to success. Young noted that Saunders is a self-made player whose journey serves as an inspiration to others.
Off the court, Saunders has engaged in meaningful projects, such as hosting “Work With Faith” basketball camps in Tahiti alongside his wife, Sierra, aiming to impact young lives through sports. He also expressed pride in witnessing his former high school teammate, Fousseyni Traore, being baptized into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, reinforcing the community and family values that BYU embodies.
As the Cougars head into a crucial stretch of the season with key opportunities to enhance their NCAA Tournament résumé, Saunders remains focused on guiding his team through these challenges. He recognizes the significance of the remaining games, keen to finish his collegiate career on a high note with potential honors and a promising future ahead.
With anticipation building for the upcoming match against Colorado, Saunders’ journey continues to unfold, filled with hope and the promise of fulfilling a dream that has loomed large since his first days at BYU.