BYU Star Richie Saunders Ruled Out for the Season

Saunders suffered a season-ending ACL injury in the first minute of the Cougars' win over Colorado.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

BYU star Richie Saunders suffered a season-ending ACL injury in the first minute of the Cougars' 90-86 overtime victory over Colorado on Saturday. Saunders, who was averaging 18.8 points per game, was helped off the court and later ruled out for the rest of the season. The injury is a devastating blow to the BYU basketball team, which also saw another key player, Robert Wright III, suffer an ankle injury in the same game.

Why it matters

Saunders was one of BYU's top players, providing scoring, defense, and rebounding. His absence will force the Cougars to rely more on role players to step up and fill the void left by the star's season-ending injury.

The details

Saunders jumped up to deliver a pass and came down awkwardly on his knee, immediately grabbing his knee when he went to the floor. He was helped off the court and later ruled out for the rest of the game. On Sunday, BYU announced that Saunders had suffered a season-ending ACL injury. In the same game, BYU's Robert Wright III also suffered an ankle injury, but was able to return to the game after a brief absence.

  • Saunders suffered the injury in the first 45 seconds of the game against Colorado on February 15, 2026.
  • BYU announced Saunders' season-ending injury on February 16, 2026.

The players

Richie Saunders

A star player for the BYU basketball team who was averaging 18.8 points and 6.0 rebounds per game before suffering a season-ending ACL injury.

Robert Wright III

Another key player for BYU who suffered an ankle injury in the same game as Saunders, but was able to return to the game after a brief absence.

AJ Dybantsa

A BYU player who stepped up in Saunders' absence, finishing the first half with 20 points, 8 assists, and 13 rebounds.

Tlyer Mrus

A BYU reserve player who knocked down a pair of three-pointers in the first half after Saunders' injury.

Jimmer Fredette

A former BYU star whose number was retired at halftime of the game against Colorado.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

With Saunders out for the season, BYU will need to rely on role players to step up and fill the void left by the star's absence. The Cougars' depth and ability to adapt will be tested as they look to overcome this significant injury and continue their successful season.