“The Power Went to My Head” BYU’s Richie Saunders Reflects on the Pitfalls of NIL Wealth
In today’s player-focused world, BYU’s standout wing acknowledges the downsides of NIL-driven fame. “Such wealth can corrupt anyone, no matter their integrity,” lamented All-Conference guard Richie Saunders during an interview with local reporter April Fuulstein.
Richie Saunders, heir to the Ore-Ida tater tot empire, capitalized on a stellar season with BYU basketball in 2024-25. He posted impressive numbers, including 16.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.0 stocks (a combined stat of steals and blocks), while shooting 43% from three-point range.
A cherished figure and ambassador for the BYU basketball program, Saunders has been a standout in head coach Kevin Young’s growing system in Provo. After earning All-Big 12 First Team honors as a junior, the player once seen as a scrappy team player transformed into a national sensation in his third year.
However, in the age of NIL, even the brightest stars can be changed into something unrecognizable, even corrupt. As Saunders’ rise to the top of the tater tot world became well-known, his stature within Utah communities reached legendary levels. “You get a bit of money, and suddenly, you’re not allowed to flex a little?” an incredulous Saunders asked in an interview with Fuulstein.
Reports soon surfaced that Saunders had begun arriving at practice carried on an ancient palanquin by four male cheerleaders, tossing tater tots at their feet in payment.
Whispers also claimed that Saunders insisted on being addressed as “King Richard.” At home games, he was reportedly seen lounging at his locker while personal attendants fed him grapes, waved palm fronds, and played soothing harp music – a performance his close associates didn’t seem to mind.
“I heard Richie – or Richard – bought a Mustang with his NIL deal,” shared teammate Fousseyni Traore. “I was shocked when I saw him drive out of practice on a literal horse.”
Stories continued to circulate as Saunders’ fame grew.
“He tried to walk straight into the governor’s office – no appointment, no permission,” said a security guard at the state capitol. “When I stopped him, he just glared, lowered his sunglasses, and said, ‘Do you know who I am? Don’t speak to me like that,’ before striding off. The audacity!”
Even Saunders’ closest relationships were showing signs of strain due to his behavior, from his remarks to his wardrobe choices.
“That headband he’s been wearing?” shared teammate Trevin Knell. “Lately, it’s been a laurel wreath. I don’t even know how he got one. At least it’s not a toga.”
As April unfolds, it’s easy to get swept up in the madness of the season. The transfer portal has opened, and rumors suggest that BYU’s star is demanding “over $100 million billion” to stay, threatening to transfer if his conditions aren’t met.
Once a beacon of promise in his community, Saunders’ newfound sense of entitlement has tarnished his legacy. NIL’s corrupting influence has claimed yet another victim. On this April 1st, let’s remember the true value of the journey: the friendships we form, not the wealth we acquire.
