Graham Ike's Return: Gonzaga's star forward, Graham Ike, is set to return after missing the last three games due to an ankle injury. Ike averages 18.1 points and 8.8 rebounds per game and will be a key factor in Gonzaga's offense.
Rivalry Significance: This game is not only a battle for WCC supremacy but also carries sentimental weight as it's the last regular-season conference matchup in Spokane before Gonzaga moves to the Pac-12. The Zags have won 19 of the 29 meetings in the last decade, but Saint Mary’s has won the last two held in Spokane.
Key Players: Saint Mary's is led by Paulius Murauskas, the WCC's top scorer, averaging 19.3 points and 7.5 rebounds. Joshua Dent, the Gaels' sophomore point guard, is also a key player, contributing 13.3 points and 5.4 assists per game.
Betting Odds: Gonzaga is favored by 9.5 points, with the over/under set at 148.5. The Zags are -575 on the MoneyLine, while Saint Mary's is +425 to win.
Why this matters: This game has significant implications for both teams' NCAA Tournament aspirations. For Gonzaga, a win solidifies their position as a top contender, while Saint Mary's desperately needs a Quad 1 victory to enhance their tournament resume.
Gonzaga Bulldogs: The Bulldogs boast a high-powered offense, averaging 88.9 points per game, and a strong defense. They lead the WCC in multiple statistical categories, including assist-to-turnover ratio, assists, and scoring offense. With Ike back in the lineup, Gonzaga aims to leverage their experience and physicality.
Saint Mary's Gaels: Known for their physical and aggressive style, the Gaels excel in rebounding and slowing down the game. Saint Mary's ranks seventh nationally in rebound margin and relies on Murauskas, Dent, and Lewis for offensive production. Their youth and defensive solidity make them a challenging opponent.
The game will feature intriguing matchups, including Ike against Saint Mary's imposing frontcourt of Andrew McKeever and Harry Wessels. The guard play of Gonzaga's Jalen Warley and Saint Mary's Joshua Dent will also be crucial in controlling the tempo and flow of the game.
Gonzaga is 21-1 overall but 14-8 against the spread.
Saint Mary's is 19-3 overall and 11-10 against the spread.
Saint Mary’s doesn’t own a victory over a top-50 KenPom team.
The game will be televised nationally on ESPN at 7:30 p.m. PT. Streaming options are available via the ESPN app, ESPN+, and live TV streaming services like YouTube TV and FuboTV.
When and where is the game being played?
The game is on Saturday, January 31st, at 7:30 p.m. PT at the McCarthey Athletic Center in Spokane, Washington.
How can I watch the game?
The game will be televised on ESPN and can be streamed on the ESPN app, ESPN+, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, and FuboTV.
What is the point spread for the game?
Gonzaga is favored by 9.5 points.
This Gonzaga vs. Saint Mary's matchup is more than just a game; it's a clash of styles, a battle for WCC supremacy, and a significant test for both teams' NCAA Tournament hopes. Key takeaways include:
Graham Ike's return boosts Gonzaga's offense and rebounding.
Saint Mary's needs a Quad 1 win to solidify their tournament resume.
The game's physicality and strategic matchups will be critical in determining the outcome.
Do you think Gonzaga will cover the spread with Ike back in the lineup? Or will Saint Mary's pull off the upset? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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