What's Happening?
The Gonzaga Bulldogs men's basketball team is preparing to face the Pepperdine Waves in a West Coast Conference game on Sunday. Gonzaga, under coach Mark Few, is looking to extend its impressive 49-game winning streak against Pepperdine, a streak that dates back to 2002. The game will be held in Malibu and broadcast on ESPN+. Gonzaga, with a 12-1 record this season, is favored to win, while Pepperdine has struggled with a 5-8 record. The Waves, led by coach Ed Schilling, have faced challenges with roster continuity and performance, reflected in their high turnover rate and shooting difficulties. Former Gonzaga player Pavle Stosic, now with Pepperdine, will face his former team, adding an interesting dynamic to the matchup.
Why It's Important?
This game is significant
for Gonzaga as it marks their final West Coast Conference opener before transitioning to the Pac-12 in the 2026-27 season. Maintaining their winning streak against Pepperdine would be a strong start to their final WCC season. For Pepperdine, a victory against a powerhouse like Gonzaga could be a major morale booster and a highlight of their season. The game also provides a platform for players like Pavle Stosic to showcase their skills against top-tier competition. The outcome could influence team dynamics and strategies as both teams progress through the season.
What's Next?
After facing Pepperdine, Gonzaga will continue their Southern California road trip with a game against San Diego. These games are part of their final WCC schedule before moving to the Pac-12, making them historically significant for the program. For Pepperdine, the focus will be on improving their performance and addressing the issues that have plagued their season so far. Both teams will be looking to solidify their strategies and player rotations as they move deeper into the season.
