Raven Saunders Throws World Lead in Return to the Shot Put as a Pro

By Adam Kopet

Raven Saunders left Ole Miss in February, giving up her final year of eligibility, as was previously reported. Now Saunders is back, competing as a professional, according to Jeff Hartsell of the Post and Courier.

Saunders left Ole Miss and returned home to Charleston in February. The four-time NCAA champion was burned out and needed time without the pressures of training and competing.

However, it did not take long before the itch to compete returned. Saunders has signed with agent John Nubani and she made her professional debut last weekend at the War Eagle Invitational. Her winning mark, 64-2.25 (19.56m), is the best in the world this year.

Saunders left Ole Miss still needing 13 credits to graduate. She plans to earn those credits during the summer and fall this year.

Next up for Saunders is the Shanghai Diamond League meeting May 12.