As Gonzaga bids farewell to the West Coast Conference, they do so with a flourish, clinching the automatic bid for the NCAA Tournament. Their dominance over the past 25 years makes this a fitting send-off as they prepare to join the revamped Pac-12 next season.
Under the guidance of head coach Mark Few, Gonzaga has become a powerhouse in college basketball. Since 1999, they've been a staple in the NCAA Tournament, and this year looks no different with a likely 3 seed.
Some unlucky 14 seed will have the daunting task of trying to keep up with them. Let's break down how Gonzaga can secure another trip to the second weekend of the tournament.
Graham Ike's Impact
Graham Ike is set to be a standout player throughout the tournament's first weekend. He embodies the quintessential Mark Few big man-versatile, able to run the floor, pass effectively, shoot from outside, and finish with precision in the paint.
Ike's ability to dominate is crucial for Gonzaga. The Bulldogs consistently look to him, and when he's on the floor, their efficiency skyrockets. His presence on both ends of the court makes Gonzaga a formidable opponent, and his performance will be key to advancing past the first round.
Three-Point Shooting Threat
Defending Gonzaga is already a challenge with Ike in the paint, but their three-point shooting adds another layer of difficulty. When they're hitting from deep, alongside feeding Ike, they become nearly unguardable.
Yes, there was that unexpected loss to Portland, where shooting woes and injuries played a part. But with players like Tyon Grant-Foster, Davis Fogle, and Mario Saint-Supery finding their rhythm from beyond the arc, Gonzaga has the potential to make a deep tournament run. Consistency here is crucial, as it has been a point of concern at times this season.
Avoiding Complacency
Gonzaga's reputation precedes them, yet the elusive National Championship remains a talking point. Historically, they've been a team that shows up ready to compete, but this season has seen some uncharacteristic lapses.
The 40-point loss to Michigan and the stumble against Portland are reminders of the dangers of complacency. These games need to be lessons learned rather than lingering doubts. Coach Few's teams are known for their resilience and preparedness, and to reach the second weekend, Gonzaga must maintain their intensity for the full 80 minutes.
With the right focus and execution, Gonzaga can once again prove why they're a perennial contender in college basketball.