In the world of college basketball, a 27-8 record is nothing to scoff at. It’s a solid performance that many programs would be proud of. However, for the Gonzaga Bulldogs, last season was considered a disappointment. Despite their long-standing dominance in the West Coast Conference, the Bulldogs found themselves overshadowed by their conference rival, the St. Mary’s Gaels, who clinched both the regular season and conference tournament championships.
But fear not, Bulldogs fans, because this season is shaping up to be a different story. Head coach Mark Few has gone above and beyond in assembling a powerhouse roster that rivals any program in the country. With most of last year’s key players returning and some top-tier talent coming in through the transfer portal, Gonzaga is ready to reclaim its spot at the top of the WCC.
One of the key departures from last season was Drew Timme, a standout player known for his defensive prowess. Timme’s ability to guard multiple positions and excel on the defensive end was a huge loss for the Bulldogs. Many have questioned whether Gonzaga’s defense can measure up to their elite offense without Timme in the lineup.
Despite Timme’s departure, there is still plenty of talent on the roster. Leading scorer Graham Ike is back, averaging an impressive 16.4 points and 7.4 rebounds per game. Point guard Ryan Nembhard has also emerged as a force to be reckoned with, dishing out seven assists per game while minimizing turnovers. With a strong core of players like Nolan Hickman, Braden Huff, Dusty Stromer, and Ben Gregg, the Bulldogs are poised for success.
Looking ahead to the 2024-25 season, Gonzaga is set to bring in a host of new talent through the transfer portal. With a mix of returning players and fresh faces, the Bulldogs are ready to make some noise in the WCC once again. So buckle up, basketball fans, because Gonzaga is back and better than ever.
