BYU basketball fans just got confirmation that another special season might be in store.
The Cougars' leading scorer, Richie Saunders, announced on his Instagram Saturday evening that he will be returning to BYU to play his senior season.
Richie Saunders announces he is returning to BYU. pic.twitter.com/vro0hrbruE
— Robby McCombs (@rtmccombs) April 27, 2025
During the 2024-25 season, Saunders broke out as one of the nation's best players. The first-team All-Big 12 member averaged 16.5 points on 51.8% FG and 43.2% 3-pt FG shooting on his way to leading the Cougars to their third Sweet 16 in program history.
After Saunders' impressive showing in the NCAA tournament — and for most the season — his name was thrown around as a potential NBA prospect, with his physical play and hot shooting being enticing skills for any NBA front office.
Now paired with No. 1 high school recruit AJ Dybantsa, and transfers Rob Wright lll, Kennard Davis Jr and Dominique Diamonde, the Cougars have had one of the best offseasons in college hoops.
In his message to BYU fans, Saunders wrote, "Time to finish what we started, Cougar Nation."
Next year, Saunders will look to be one of the nation's top players again, and lead the Cougars to their first Final Four in school history.