## Richie Saunders: From Visualization to NBA Dreams
Richie Saunders, the standout guard from Brigham Young University (BYU), has captivated basketball fans with his exceptional shooting prowess and all-around game. His journey is a testament to the power of visualization, a technique he embraced from a young age, encouraged by his father, Rich, a former basketball player at UC Davis. Growing up in Utah, Saunders passionately followed BYU basketball, dreaming of one day donning the Cougar uniform.
That dream became a reality, and Saunders hasn’t just fulfilled it – he’s excelled. After honing his skills at Wasatch Academy, where he emerged as a three-star prospect, he committed to BYU and quickly became a pivotal player. Last season, he earned First-Team All Big-12 honors and was named the Big 12 Most Improved Player, showcasing his rapid development.
### A Statistical Snapshot of Success
This season, Saunders is averaging an impressive 18.8 points, 6.0 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1.8 steals, and 0.3 blocks per game, all while shooting 48.9% from the field, 37.6% from three-point range, and 81.7% from the free-throw line. These numbers highlight his well-rounded skillset and consistent performance.
As Saunders prepares to conclude his collegiate career, NBA scouts are taking notice, visualizing his potential impact at the next level. His defining attribute, the ‘carrying tool’ that sets him apart, is undoubtedly his three-point shooting.
### The Three-Point Weapon
A career 38.7% three-point shooter, Saunders has elevated his game this season, connecting on 37.6% of his attempts on a career-high volume of 7.1 attempts per game. His mechanics are compact, repeatable, and feature a quick release, allowing him to shoot with deep range and unwavering confidence. What truly sets him apart is his ability to maintain these mechanics regardless of the situation – whether it’s a catch-and-shoot, a pull-up jumper, or shooting off the dribble.
Specifically, Saunders excels in various shooting scenarios:
* **Spot-up threes:** 41.7% (84 attempts)
* **Unguarded catch-and-shoot threes:** 45.9% (61 attempts)
* **Transition threes:** 52.4% (21 attempts)
While his pick-and-roll shooting is still developing (2-of-11 as the ball-handler), the foundation is there for him to become a reliable weapon in that area.
### Beyond the Arc: A Complete Offensive Player
Saunders’ shooting gravity opens up opportunities for his teammates and allows him to effectively attack closeouts and utilize handoffs. His shot fake is a valuable asset, creating scoring chances at the rim and as a pull-up shooter. He converts 59.4% of his attempts at the rim in the halfcourt, showcasing his finishing ability.
He’s also a trustworthy passer, making smart reads in drive-and-kick situations and finding cutters both off the bounce and from a standstill. Furthermore, Saunders contributes on the offensive glass, averaging two offensive rebounds per game, often securing crucial second-chance opportunities.
### Defensive Value and NBA Translation
While not a lockdown defender, Saunders brings value on the defensive end through his playmaking and rebounding. His quick hands, strong frame, and competitiveness allow him to generate steals and disrupt opposing offenses. He averages 2.1 stocks (steals + blocks) per game.
His rebounding prowess is particularly noteworthy for a perimeter player, averaging six rebounds per game, including impressive outings against top teams like Baylor, Houston, Kansas, and Arizona.
At 6’5”, Saunders possesses a unique combination of skills – legitimate three-point shooting, floor spacing, energetic rebounding, and defensive playmaking. His ability to thrive in an NBA-style offense, as demonstrated under coach Kevin Young, suggests a smooth transition to the professional level. Many believe he could be a second-round steal, potentially returning first-round value.
[NBA Draft](https://www.nba.com/draft) resources provide further insights into player evaluations and projections.
**Trust the profile and embrace the vision.** Richie Saunders is a player to watch as he embarks on his NBA journey.
