What's Happening?
The Gonzaga Bulldogs and Saint Mary's Gaels are set to face off in what could be one of their last regular-season meetings as West Coast Conference (WCC) rivals. Gonzaga, currently ranked No. 6, will be moving
to the Pac-12 next season, marking the end of a long-standing rivalry that has been a highlight of the WCC. The Bulldogs have dominated the series historically, winning 27 of the last 37 encounters, but Saint Mary's has been a formidable opponent, winning six of the last 11 matchups. This season, Gonzaga has a strong record of 21-1 and is on a 14-game winning streak, while Saint Mary's stands at 19-3. The Gaels are aiming for their 18th 20-win season in 19 years, a testament to their consistent performance under coach Randy Bennett.
Why It's Important?
This matchup is significant as it marks the end of an era in the WCC, with Gonzaga's departure to the Pac-12 reshaping the conference's competitive landscape. The rivalry has been a staple of college basketball, drawing attention to the WCC and elevating its profile nationally. For Gonzaga, the move to the Pac-12 represents a step up in competition and exposure, potentially impacting recruitment and the program's future success. Saint Mary's, on the other hand, will lose a key rival, which could affect its schedule strength and national visibility. The outcome of this game could also influence seeding in the upcoming WCC tournament and NCAA tournament considerations.
What's Next?
As Gonzaga transitions to the Pac-12, both teams will need to adjust to new competitive environments. Gonzaga will face tougher opponents regularly, which could impact its dominance seen in the WCC. Saint Mary's will need to find new rivalries to maintain its competitive edge and national relevance. The WCC will also need to adapt to the loss of one of its marquee programs, potentially seeking to strengthen its lineup with new teams or focusing on developing existing members to fill the void left by Gonzaga.
Beyond the Headlines
The shift of Gonzaga to the Pac-12 could have broader implications for college basketball, potentially prompting other mid-major programs to seek similar moves to enhance their profiles. This realignment reflects ongoing changes in college sports, driven by financial incentives and the pursuit of greater exposure. The rivalry's end also highlights the evolving nature of college athletics, where traditional matchups may be sacrificed for strategic growth opportunities.
