AJ Dybantsa is the big star representing BYU in the 2026 NBA Draft. But Richie Saunders could become another option for Sacramento for these reasons.
The Sacramento Kings will energize fans by taking one BYU star.
AJ Dybantsa, however, isn't the lone Cougars standout who could land here via the 2026 NBA Draft.
KingsRoundtable continues to sort through potential draft selections ahead of the June event. Brayden Burries of Arizona is one of the more recent possibilities. Same with Cameron Boozer of Duke, Darius Acuff of Arkansas, plus Darryn Peterson of Kansas are all mentioned as potential Kings additions.
But we can't forget about the second round possibilities either.
And that's where we lure in this late round possibility from Provo, Utah who played alongside Dybantsa in Richie Saunders.
Catch-and-Shoot Prowess
Saunders' strength is catching and shooting.
He brings a strong flick of the wrist and doesn't hesitate to release the ball the moment he's got a three-point opportunity.
Saunders presents consistency from the perimeter too, shooting higher than 36% in the last three seasons from long range.
He's also fresh off delivering a career-high in points per game.
High IQ Attacker
Saunders isn't just a long range marksman.
He's intelligent enough in knowing when to attack the lane. Saunders penetrates when he sees a hole open on the court.
Saunders can even switch to his off-hand when it looks like he can't get a layup off with his right hand.
He's an effective attacker when he's got space.
Does he Excel Against Multiple Defenses?
Saunders noticeably performs better when there's a solo defender.
He rarely faces double teams. Obviously Dybantsa drawing attention helps Saunders' side.
But he looks like he excels more against man-on-man defenses and not zone. Plus a majority of his baskets came without facing a double team, or even drawing contact.
He runs the risk of becoming more reliant on the three-pointer at the next level. Saunders does attack in transition too, but he's not the quickest to the basket especially compared to Dybantsa.
Areas of Concern
Saunders looks like he lacks multiple post moves.
He thrives better with floor spacing including when he cuts inside. But he's not someone who'll destroy man defenses on a blow-by to the basket.
We also must mention this other pre-draft dilemma: The health of his right knee following his torn ACL. Scouts will wonder if he'll be fully healthy for NBA Summer League and then the regular season.
Saunders also is limited on the defensive side. He must turn to instincts to make up for his lack of size when defending ball handlers by himself. He's not much of a defensive stopper on the court, though.
Are Kings a Fit?
ESPN's latest mock draft plugged Saunders landing at No. 45 overall to Sacramento. They even have him going ahead of Kansas star Flory Bidunga (who also transferred to Louisville).
Head coach Doug Christie likely won't turn down having an extra perimeter shooter. Especially if it means coming off the bench.
ESPN's scenario presented St. John's star Zuby Ejiofor going higher in the second to Sacramento, which addresses the defense. Saunders can help with shooting depth.
But his limited defense makes it hard for him to see the floor a lot in the league. He can rise as a shooting spark off the bench early in his career.