1,000,003 Reasons Richie Saunders Should Stay at BYU Instead of Pursuing the NBA
Richie Saunders had an exceptional 2024-25 season, earning All-Big 12 First Team honors and Most Improved Player recognition in the conference. He also helped lead the Cougars to the Sweet 16, marking one of BYU’s best basketball seasons. As the NBA Draft approaches, it remains uncertain whether he will return for another season at BYU or take the professional leap. Here are the 1,000,003 reasons why Saunders should stay in Provo for one more year:
Reason No. 1 through No. 1,000,000 – NIL Opportunities
In his final year of college basketball, Saunders will likely earn more money than he would in his first professional season. Reports suggest he could earn over $1 million in NIL deals, with BYU’s dedicated boosters eager to contribute. Additionally, Saunders has lucrative NIL agreements, including a popular partnership with Ore-Ida’s Tater Tots, which further enhances his earning potential.
If Saunders is selected at the end of the second round of the NBA Draft (which is uncertain), it’s important to note that second-round picks rarely secure guaranteed contracts. Many second-round players face the uncertainty of being unsigned or spending significant time in the G League, earning less than what Saunders could make at BYU. Players who make it to the NBA on two-way contracts earn only half the rookie minimum salary, roughly $600,000—far below the potential income Saunders could earn in one more year at BYU.
Reason No. 1,000,001 – Draft Odds Are Slim
Why will Saunders make more money in his final year at BYU than in his first professional season? The simple answer: It’s unlikely he will be selected in the NBA Draft. While Saunders is a favorite of BYU fans, the reality of his draft prospects is tough. NBA teams tend to avoid drafting players who are 22 or older, as they are generally seen as having less developmental potential. At 23, Saunders is the same age as established NBA players like Anthony Edwards and Cade Cunningham. Scouts often believe that players at this age have already hit their peak, and teams are more inclined to invest in younger, less developed prospects.
Reason No. 1,000,002 – Professional Opportunities Will Still Be There in 2026
Even if Saunders isn’t drafted, it doesn’t mean his professional basketball career is over. He can still find his way into the NBA, likely as an undrafted player invited to Summer League or the G League. While he might not have the physical attributes of some NBA players, his skills align well with what the league values—shooting, perimeter defense, and driving ability. Teams like the Boston Celtics or Oklahoma City Thunder, with strong NBA connections, might offer him a Summer League invitation. If he doesn’t land in the NBA, playing in Europe is always an option, with EuroLeague players earning between $400,000 and $600,000 on average, a sum Saunders could earn for years in Europe.
Reason No. 1,000,003 – Pursue a National Championship
After helping BYU reach the Sweet 16, Saunders must be eager for another shot at the national championship. With the top high school recruit, AJ Dybantsa, joining BYU next season, the Cougars could be poised for another deep tournament run if Saunders decides to return. Saunders is already a fan favorite in Provo, and another year at BYU could solidify his place as a legend in the school’s basketball history.
For all these reasons, staying in Provo for one more season might be the best choice for Saunders, both professionally and personally. One more year could make him a true legend at BYU.