2026 NBA Draft: Richie Saunders Scouting Report
- Babcock Hoops
- Sep 22
- 2 min read
Updated: Nov 29
Throughout the 2025-26 season, Babcock Hoops will provide comprehensive scouting reports on top 2026 NBA Draft prospects, analyzing their strengths, weaknesses, and potential at the next level. Our reports offer an in-depth look at each player's development and draft outlook.
Richie Saunders
Position:Â Guard/Forward
College:Â BYU
Class:Â Senior
Height/Weight:Â 6'5", 200 lbs
Birthdate:Â September 19, 2001
High School: Wasatch Academy (UT)
Player Overview
Richie Saunders was one of the most efficient scorers in the Big 12 last season. He is a high-level shooter from deep and a capable off-the-dribble scorer, but his greatest strength is his ability to move without the ball. His ability to relocate, use various pickup points, and score in motion makes him a valuable offensive weapon. Last season, he showed improvement as a playmaker and rebounder, adding more versatility to his game.
However, Saunders faces concerns regarding his athleticism and defensive upside. His limited lateral quickness makes it difficult for him to contain quicker players, and he lacks the defensive versatility to guard bigger wings. Offensively, he struggles to create separation against high-level defenders, making his NBA role somewhat unclear. While he has the size of an NBA shooting guard, his defensive limitations could present challenges at the next level.
"He may have some limitations, but his ability to score at all three levels off the ball makes him an intriguing complementary piece at the next level. He can really shoot the ball, and shooting always comes at a premium." — Matt Babcock, NBA Draft Analyst
Strengths
Elite Shooting Efficiency:Â Among the most efficient scorers in the Big 12, excelling from deep and in catch-and-shoot situations.
Off-Ball Movement:Â Highly effective at relocating, cutting, and finding open space for scoring opportunities.
Scoring Versatility:Â Can score off the dribble, in transition, and off movement.
Improved Playmaking & Rebounding:Â Has taken strides in these areas, adding value beyond scoring.
Strong Basketball IQ:Â Makes high-IQ plays on both ends of the floor.
Concerns
Limited Athleticism:Â Lacks high-end lateral quickness, impacting his ability to defend quicker players.
Defensive Versatility:Â He struggles to guard opposing wings, making his NBA role unclear.
Shot Creation:Â He can struggle to create separation against elite defenders.
Positional Fit:Â Best suited as a shooting guard, but defensive limitations could limit his effectiveness.
Bottom Line
Richie Saunders is a high-level shooter with strong off-ball movement and an efficient scoring profile. He has the size of an NBA guard and can stretch the floor, but questions remain about his defensive versatility and shot creation against top competition. If he can prove he can defend at a high level and continue expanding his playmaking and rebounding, Saunders can carve out a role as a floor-spacing wing at the next level.
