When it comes to spotting talent, Pacific's head coach Dave Smart has an eye for the extraordinary. Last summer, whether on the AAU circuit or at a top 100 camp, Smart witnessed something special in Davis Fogle.
He might not have caught Fogle's name at the time, but the impression was unforgettable. Fast forward to Saturday, and Fogle's brilliance was on full display as he dropped 18 crucial points, steering the Zags to a 71-62 victory at the McCarthey Athletic Center.
Smart's memory was jogged when Fogle made a standout move in the first half. "That’s the kid I thought was so special," he remarked to his assistant, recognizing the same talent he had admired months before.
Fogle has been stepping up, especially in the absence of Braden Huff, who’s been sidelined with a knee injury. The 6-foot-7 wing has become a key player, scoring in double figures in six of the last 11 games. With increased minutes, he's proven his worth, not just in blowouts but in tight contests like the two-point win over San Francisco and the recent victory against Pacific.
His 18-point performance on Saturday was his second highest of the season, just shy of the 19 he scored against Southern Utah in November. Gonzaga coach Mark Few praised Fogle's progress, noting his ability to contribute significantly in a challenging game where offense was hard to come by. Fogle’s knack for making baskets when it counts has been a game-changer.
On Saturday, Fogle was efficient, shooting 4 of 5 from the field, nailing his only 3-point attempt, and going 9 of 12 at the charity stripe. His clutch free throws in the final minutes helped maintain Gonzaga's lead, showcasing his poise under pressure.
Fogle's work ethic hasn’t gone unnoticed by his teammates either. Senior Graham Ike highlighted Fogle's dedication, saying, "This guy’s a worker, day in, day out.
He’s always in the gym, early mornings, late nights." Ike believes Fogle’s mentality and edge set him apart, predicting a bright future for the young star.
It's clear that Davis Fogle is not just playing the game; he's making his mark, and if his current trajectory is any indication, there's much more to come from this promising talent.