The BYU Cougars suffered a major setback on Saturday during their game against the Colorado Buffaloes. Their star guard, Richie Saunders, went down with an injury in the opening minute of the game and didn’t come back.
It was later revealed that Saunders had suffered a season-ending torn ACL against Colorado and that it would bring his BYU career to an end. He averaged 18 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and shot nearly 49% from the field.
Losing Saunders at this stage in the season could affect the Cougars’ campaign. Although they won against Colorado, the Cougars were recently on a four-game losing streak. Without one of their regular starters and March Madness approaching, the Cougars will have to make some adjustments to their lineup and the way they approach games.
Saunders, on the other hand, is feeling dejected. This was going to be his last year with the BYU Cougars after first joining them in 2022. He won the Big 12 Most Improved Player in 2025 and made it to First-team All-Big 12.
After the injury, the 24-year-old took to Instagram to share the heartbreaking news with his fans.
“Unfortunate news last night — I tore my ACL, ending my season. Thank you for all the thoughts and prayers. They mean more than you know. To end my BYU career like this is heartbreaking. I’ve loved every moment and every challenge that came with representing the school I love,” he wrote.
Saunders stated that the last four years he has spent with the BYU Cougars have shaped him not just as a player but as a person, too. The 24-year-old is grateful for the transformation on and off the field.
Richie Saunders’ Goals Remain Unchanged
A torn ACL is no longer a career-ending injury due to modern surgical techniques and dedicated rehabilitation. However, coming back from a torn ACL as the same player or better remains a difficult challenge.
Saunders is confident that this won’t be the end of his career. In his Instagram post, he assured his fans that he will be back with more to fight for.
“My story has never been one of ease. And while I didn’t plan for this, my career is not over. I will return with more fight and more grit than before. My goals haven’t changed,” he wrote.
Saunders stated he is trusting god on this journey, and he will continue to push himself to return to the floor.
Read More:
“I’ve Given Up On That”: Dan Hurley Makes Feelings Very Clear On UConn Fans After Georgetown Win
Who Are Amari Bailey’s Parents? A Closer Look at the Family That Shaped His Basketball Journey
Who Are Cameron Boozer’s Parents? Inside the Family Behind the 5-Star Forward
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball!
