BYU Star Richie Saunders Suffers ACL Tear, Out for Season

In a heartbreaking turn of events, BYU star Richie Saunders has been sidelined for the remainder of the season due to a torn ACL. The injury occurred just under a minute into Saturday’s overtime victory against Colorado. Saunders, a senior guard, announced the news on Sunday, expressing his deep disappointment in a heartfelt message to fans.

Richie Saunders: A Season and Career Cut Short

Richie Saunders had been a vital player for the BYU Cougars. Prior to the injury, he was averaging 18.8 points and 6.0 rebounds per game. His shooting percentage stood at 48.9%, contributing significantly to the team’s success this season. Beyond his statistics, Saunders was recognized as the vocal leader of the program, embodying the spirit of Cougar basketball.

An Emotional Farewell

• Saunders shared his heartbreak on social media, stating, “To end my BYU career like this is heartbreaking.”
• He thanked Cougar Nation for their unwavering support throughout his college journey.
• His contributions on the court made him a local favorite, with dreams of playing for BYU since childhood.

Impact on BYU Basketball

Saunders ranked second in scoring for the Cougars this season and was instrumental during last year’s NCAA tournament, where he averaged 22.0 points per game. His performance helped BYU achieve its third Sweet 16 appearance since 1981.

Statistics Overview

In addition to Saunders, sixth man Dawson Baker also suffered an ACL tear earlier in the season. The Cougars are now looking toward players like Tyler Mrus, Mihailo Boskovic, and Aleksej Kostic to step up in the wake of these injuries.

Despite the setback, Saunders remains resilient, stating, “My career is not over. I will return with more fight and more grit than before.” His determination and strength resonate not only with his teammates but with all Cougar fans as they support him through this challenging time.