Showdown in Moraga: Gonzaga vs. Saint Mary’s for WCC Supremacy
As the West Coast Conference season reaches its climax, the spotlight is firmly on the battle between Gonzaga and Saint Mary’s. These two powerhouses have emerged from the pack, leaving the rest of the conference in their wake. With the regular season title on the line, Saturday’s clash promises to be a defining moment.
Gonzaga, ranked ninth nationally, has already secured a share of the WCC regular-season title and the top seed for the conference tournament. But the Zags have their sights set on more than just a share-they’re gunning for their first outright league championship since the 2021-22 season. Standing in their way is a Saint Mary’s squad determined to keep their championship hopes alive and extend their 25-game home winning streak.
Saint Mary’s head coach, Randy Bennett, has made it clear that this matchup holds more weight than the conference tournament itself. “It’s just going to be a battle, us and Gonzaga,” Bennett remarked. The stakes couldn’t be higher as these two teams face off, potentially for the last time as WCC adversaries.
For Gonzaga, pride and postseason implications are on the line. Forward Graham Ike, who previously torched the Gaels with a 30-point performance, is eager to make another statement as a contender for WCC Player of the Year. Meanwhile, Saint Mary’s standout Paulius Murauskas, averaging 18.9 points and 7.7 rebounds, will be key in countering Gonzaga’s offensive firepower.
The contrasting styles of play add another layer of intrigue. Gonzaga’s up-tempo offense will clash with Saint Mary’s deliberate, possession-oriented approach. Both teams have found success with their respective strategies, but the game will likely hinge on who can impose their will over 40 minutes.
Gonzaga’s head coach, Mark Few, emphasized the need for aggression, especially on the boards. “You just have to really battle them, make every basket hard,” Few stated. Despite being shorthanded due to injuries, including the absence of second-leading scorer Braden Huff, the Zags are determined to rise to the occasion.
The last meeting between these teams saw five lead changes, with Gonzaga ultimately prevailing. Saint Mary’s will need stronger performances from their big men, Harry Wessels and Andrew McKeever, to contain Ike and tip the scales in their favor.
As the Gaels honor Wessels on Senior Night, the atmosphere at UCU Pavilion will be electric. “As a Gael, you live for these games,” Wessels said. With everything on the line, this showdown in Moraga is set to be a classic, showcasing the heart and intensity that define college basketball rivalries.