BYU Guard Richie Saunders Tears ACL, Ends Career

PROVO, Utah – Brigham Young University guard Richie Saunders announced Sunday that he suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee during the Cougars' 90-86 overtime victory over Colorado on Saturday, an injury that will sideline him for the remainder of the season and conclude his college basketball career.

The 6-foot-5 senior was hurt just 45 seconds into the game at the Marriott Center, on BYU's first possession. Saunders drove to the rim and kicked a pass out to forward Keba Keita before falling awkwardly to the floor. He clutched his right calf and remained down under the basket for several minutes as trainers attended to him. Saunders walked off the court under his own power after receiving assistance near half-court, raising both arms to the crowd as he headed to the locker room.

The injury occurred amid a festive atmosphere, as the halftime ceremony honored former Cougars star Jimmer Fredette by retiring his No. 32 jersey. Despite the early setback, No. 22 BYU rallied behind standout performances from freshman AJ Dybantsa and guard Rob Wright III, who combined for 58 points to secure the win. Wright led with 39 points, while Dybantsa added 19.