Image Source: SWX Local Sports
SPOKANE, Wash. — College basketball is set for an intense showdown as Gonzaga basketball takes on Saint Mary’s this Saturday. The fifth-ranked Gonzaga Bulldogs (21-1, 9-0) will put their perfect record in the West Coast Conference on the line against the Gaels (19-3, 8-1) in what promises to be an electrifying clash.
With both teams enjoying a week off to prepare, the anticipation builds for this marquee matchup, scheduled for 7:30 p.m. PT at the McCarthey Athletic Center. It marks the 120th encounter between these fierce rivals, a series that has seen Gonzaga mostly come out on top, winning 19 of the last 29 face-offs over the past decade.
A Dynamic Gonzaga Lineup
The Gonzaga Bulldogs enter this game riding an impressive 14-game winning streak. Their latest victory was a narrow 68-66 win against San Francisco last Saturday, where Jalen Warley stepped up, scoring 19 points in the absence of star players Graham Ike and Braden Huff.
However, the good news for the Bulldogs is that Graham Ike is expected to return after recovering from an injury that sidelined him for three games. Head Coach Mark Few expressed optimism about Ike’s status, noting his good performance in practice. “He’s back moving around. He looks good to me,” Few stated, anticipating Ike’s return could significantly impact the game.
Ike, who averages 18.1 points and 8.8 rebounds per game, is an essential player for Gonzaga and currently leads the WCC with 11 double-doubles this season. Alongside him, Tyon Grant-Foster has been a crucial contributor, scoring an average of 11.5 points, keeping the team competitive during Ike’s absence.
What to Expect from Saint Mary’s
The Gaels come into Spokane with a solid 19-3 record. Their only conference loss this season occurred two weeks ago against Santa Clara. Saint Mary’s has a reputation for a physical, aggressive style of play, which has troubled Gonzaga in previous encounters. The Gaels rank seventh nationally in rebounding margin, emphasizing their strength in controlling the glass.
Leading the charge for Saint Mary’s is Paulius Murauskas, a skilled forward averaging 19.3 points and 7.5 rebounds per game. His consistent scoring has been pivotal for the Gaels, alongside guards Joshua Dent and Mikey Lewis, who contribute significantly to their offensive efforts.
Statistics Spotlight
Gonzaga not only excels in scoring but also boasts impressive statistics. They average 88.9 points per game while shooting 51.7% from the field and 35.4% from beyond the arc. Defensively, they are equally formidable, ranking 12th nationally in defensive metrics.
For Saint Mary’s, while they average 78.6 points and 46.6% shooting, their defensive approach and rebounding skills will aim to counter Gonzaga’s offensive firepower.
Betting Odds and Fan Engagement
The Gonzaga Bulldogs are heavily favored in this matchup, with a spread of 9.5 points against Saint Mary’s. The over/under for the game is set at 145.5 points. While pundits expect Gonzaga to maintain their dominant form at home, many believe that the historical rivalry often leads to tightly contested games.
Fans can watch this riveting contest on ESPN and stream it via various platforms that include ESPN. The stakes are high, and enthusiasm in the Spokane community is palpable as fans prepare for what could be a decisive moment in the WCC standings.
Final Thoughts
This Saturday’s matchup between Gonzaga and Saint Mary’s is not just about the standings; it represents a storied rivalry that has defined WCC basketball for years. With key players returning and historical context at play, expect a thrilling atmosphere and a game that could swing either way.
FAQs
When is the Gonzaga vs. Saint Mary’s game?
The game is scheduled for Saturday at 7:30 p.m. PT.
How can I watch the Gonzaga basketball game?
The game will be broadcast live on ESPN and available for streaming on the ESPN app.
What is Graham Ike’s contribution to Gonzaga basketball?
Graham Ike averages 18.1 points and 8.8 rebounds per game and is crucial for the team’s success.
What is at stake for both teams in this game?
Gonzaga looks to maintain its perfect WCC record, while Saint Mary’s aims to reclaim momentum in the conference.
What is the betting line for the game?
The Gonzaga Bulldogs are favored by 9.5 points in this matchup.
