Will Richie Saunders return to BYU or test NBA Draft waters?

BYU fans have been treated to some unforgettable basketball moments in 2024-25, with Richie Saunders leading the Cougars to the Sweet 16 and earning All-Big 12 First Team honors along the way. But as the NBA Draft looms, the question remains: Should Saunders stay in Provo for one more season? Here’s why the answer is a resounding yes.

Saunders has been a fan favorite, not just for his performance on the court, but for his charisma off of it. His growing popularity has opened doors for NIL deals that would make any professional athlete envious. Reports indicate that Saunders could earn upwards of $1 million in NIL income in his final year at BYU—far exceeding what he would make as a second-round NBA pick. For comparison, many second-round picks struggle to secure guaranteed contracts and may spend years in the G League, earning less than half of that figure. A year in Provo could offer Saunders both financial stability and the chance to build his brand even further.

While Saunders is undoubtedly talented, the odds of being selected in the NBA Draft remain slim. At 23, he’s already reached an age where NBA teams are typically looking for younger prospects to develop over time. Many NBA teams would rather invest in a 19-year-old and see how he evolves over four years than take a chance on a player nearing his peak. For Saunders, the NBA will still be there in a few years, but for now, his best path to a professional career may be a year of growth and improvement at BYU.

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Richie Saunders has already proven himself in the tournament, helping BYU reach the Sweet 16. But with the arrival of AJ Dybantsa, the nation’s top recruit, next season, the Cougars could be poised for an even deeper run. Saunders, a fierce competitor, knows this is a chance to leave a lasting legacy at BYU. One more season could position him for a potential national championship—something few college athletes ever achieve.

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Richie Saunders is already beloved by BYU fans, but one more season could cement his place in Cougars’ lore. With more money, more development, and a shot at greatness, there’s no better time than now for Saunders to run it back in Provo. It’s not just about the next step—it’s about making history.