Former BYU guard Richie Saunders, the No. 32 overall pick in the 2026 NBA draft, signed a two-way contract with the Memphis Grizzlies, the team announced.
Saunders was selected to the All-Big 12 second team as a senior, averaging 18 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 1.7 steals while shooting 37.6% from 3-point range. He ranked 16th in the conference in offensive win shares (3.0) and 17th in 3-pointers (64).
The 6-foot-5 Saunders finished his collegiate career ranked eighth in program history in 3s (205), 12th in steals (133), 17th in scoring (1,544) and 19th in games (128). He also registered the 16th-most career 20-point performances (26).
Saunders was limited to 25 games as a senior with the Cougars after suffering a season-ending ACL injury
in February. He was recently cleared to ramp up his on-court activity and begin practicing with the Grizzlies, clearing the way for him to sign his contract.
The 25-year-old will split his time between the NBA and the Memphis Hustle in the G League once he is cleared to debut. He is eligible to play up to 50 games in the NBA and will earn $678,882, which is 50% of the minimum salary for a player with zero years of service.
Saunders was highly touted out of college for his scoring, 3-point shooting and defense. The team is eager to see him take the court and begin his development.
This article originally appeared on Rookie Wire: Grizzlies sign No. 32 overall pick Richie Saunders to two-way contract
