Saunders started his BYU career in 2022 after graduating high school in 2020 and serving a two-year LDS mission. He was a two-year starter and All-Big 12 player as both a junior and senior, but had his final season cut short when he tore his ACL in February. He is currently in recovery and has been unable to participate in most typical pre-draft settings because of it.
About
2026 Second Team All-Big 12, despite missing the last 10 games of the year, after averaging 18 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.7 steals on 49% FG, 38% 3pt, and 82% FT.
2025 First Team All-Big 12 after averaging 16.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 1.2 steals on 52% FG, 43% 3pt, 84% FT.
2025 Big 12 Most Improved Player who had only started 3 games in his first two years at BYU.
Strengths
Shooter with a throwback jump shot where he elevates into a high release. Has gravity spacing the floor (46% unguarded catch-and-shoot 3-pointers) and very adept at making 3-pointers off a handoff (50%).
Not a dynamic handler, but understands spacing, is able to get downhill against bad close-outs, embraces an analytically friendly shot diet (attempted just one mid-range shot all year), and was a reliable finisher at the rim (62%).
Solid positional size at 6-5 without shoes on with a nearly 6-9 wingspan and an NBA ready, 205-pound frame. Also credited for having a wealth of intangibles with a consistently high motor and energy.
Weaknesses
Old for draft standards and will turn 25 before his first potential NBA game.
Expected to miss summer league and the beginning of next season while continuing to rehab from his torn ACL.
Questionable lateral quickness defensively, despite clear will and effort. Was often matched up with opposing four-men on that end of the floor.
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