The Memphis Grizzlies continued an aggressive and productive 2026 NBA Draft by selecting BYU guard Richie Saunders with the No. 32 overall pick while also adding veteran big man Isaiah Stewart in a trade with the Detroit Pistons. The moves further emphasize Memphis' desire to blend young talent with proven NBA toughness as the franchise builds around Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr., Cam Boozer and a deepening roster.
The Grizzlies select BYU’s Richie Saunders at No. 32 overall.
Memphis adds a pure shooter to their rotation. pic.twitter.com/1KCgYAcqNL
— Evan Sidery (@esidery) June 25, 2026
Memphis is trading these same three second-round picks that the Grizzlies received from the Pistons last night, sources say, back to Detroit, in order to land Isaiah Stewart. https://t.co/sSmat0b9sN
— Jake Fischer (@JakeLFischer) June 25, 2026
Key points:
- Saunders was selected by Memphis with the 32nd overall pick after a standout career at BYU.
- The 6-foot-5 guard averaged 18 points and nearly six rebounds during his final college season.
- He earned First Team All-Big 12 honors and was recognized as one of the conference's most improved players.
- Saunders brings maturity, leadership and a high basketball IQ to Memphis.
- His relentless effort and hustle should immediately resonate with Grizzlies fans.
- Despite recovering from an ACL injury, scouts view him as one of the steals of the second round.
- Memphis now adds another floor-spacing option capable of fitting alongside Boozer.
- The Grizzlies also acquired Isaiah Stewart from Detroit for future second-round picks.
- Stewart brings six years of NBA experience and a reputation as one of the league's toughest interior defenders.
- He averaged 8.8 points and 6.8 rebounds during his Pistons tenure.
- His physicality addresses a major need for Memphis' frontcourt depth.
- Stewart can play center or power forward depending on lineup combinations, serving as a backup to Zach Edey (once healthy).
- His defensive versatility allows him to switch onto guards and protect the rim.
- Memphis effectively turned previous draft maneuvering into both a promising rookie and an established NBA contributor.
- Combined with No. 3 overall pick Cam Boozer and first-round selection Karim Lopez, the Grizzlies may have assembled one of the most impactful draft hauls in the NBA.
The big picture: Memphis entered draft week seeking talent, toughness and depth. By adding Saunders' shooting and Stewart's physical presence, the Grizzlies may have strengthened both their future and their immediate playoff aspirations in one of the busiest draft weeks in franchise history.
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Memphis Grizzlies Day 2 of the NBA Draft live on 92.9 FM ESPN
Memphis Grizzlies Day 2 of the NBA Draft live on 92.9 FM ESPN
