What's Happening?
Gonzaga University secured a 73-65 victory over Saint Mary's College in their final West Coast Conference (WCC) meeting at the McCarthey Athletic Center. The game marked a significant win for Gonzaga, with Graham Ike leading the team by scoring 30 points in his return from injury. The Bulldogs, ranked No. 6, extended their winning streak to 15 games and maintained an undefeated home record this season. Jalen Warley contributed 10 points and seven rebounds, while Emmanuel Innocenti added 10 points during a crucial second-half stretch. Saint Mary's, led by Joshua Dent with 16 points, held a four-point lead at halftime but was unable to maintain their advantage. This game was the last conference matchup between the two teams in Spokane, as Gonzaga is set
to join the revamped Pac-12 next season.
Why It's Important?
This victory solidifies Gonzaga's dominance in the WCC and highlights their readiness for the upcoming transition to the Pac-12 conference. The win not only extends their impressive winning streak but also demonstrates their ability to perform under pressure, especially with key players like Graham Ike returning from injury. For Saint Mary's, the loss underscores the challenges they face in maintaining their competitive edge against top-tier teams. The outcome of this game could influence the seeding and dynamics of the upcoming conference tournaments, impacting both teams' paths to the NCAA tournament. Gonzaga's continued success is crucial for maintaining their national ranking and securing a favorable position in postseason play.
What's Next?
Gonzaga will face Portland in their next game, while Saint Mary's is set to host San Diego. These upcoming matches will be critical for both teams as they aim to strengthen their standings before the end of the regular season. Gonzaga's transition to the Pac-12 next season will bring new challenges and opportunities, requiring them to adapt to a different competitive environment. Meanwhile, Saint Mary's will need to regroup and strategize to secure victories in their remaining games, ensuring a strong finish in the WCC and a potential bid for the NCAA tournament.
