The Memphis Grizzlies had a solid haul from the NBA Draft after selecting Duke forward Cameron Boozer at No. 3, Mexican prospect Karim Lopez at No. 21, and BYU guard Richie Saunders at No. 32. Memphis also netted five future second-round picks in back-to-back trades with the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Detroit Pistons.
Boozer is, of course, the main acquisition of the Grizzlies, who are in search of a new cornerstone in what many view as a rebuilding phase.
Lopez and Saunders, meanwhile, will have to show off in training camp and the NBA Summer League to earn their spots. Saunders might have to fight harder since Memphis is already loaded in the backcourt with Ja Morant, Ty Jerome, Cedric Coward, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cam Spencer, Scotty Pippen Jr., Walter Clayton Jr., and Javon Small.
Regardless, the 24-year-old rookie is looking forward to making an impact.
“It took a little bit, but I’m here. I think last year, playing around and being with younger players, and to be able to help guide them in the ways I’ve seen, just using my experience in the game, it’s been great,” said Saunders in the video posted by ABC4 News’ Travis Green.
“I’m gonna come on and use the previous experience that I’ve had over the years, really focus here, and hopefully be able to guide some of my young teammates as a rookie. It’s funny saying my young teammates, but that’s what it is.”
24-year-old Richie Saunders on entering the NBA as a seasoned "vet"
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"Took a little bit but I'm here!… Hopefully be able to guide some of my young teammates as a rookie.. funny saying my young teammates, but that's what it is." pic.twitter.com/WgtgBi1gYY
— Travis Green (@ItsTravisGreen) June 25, 2026
This season, the Grizzlies were among the youngest squads in the league with an average age of 24.95 years old.
In his senior year at BYU, Saunders averaged career-bests of 18.0 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.7 steals. He was named to the All-Big 12 Second Team.
He formed a talented trio with AJ Dybantsa and Robert Wright III, leading the Cougars to a 23-12 record. They received an at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament, where they were eliminated in the first round.
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