Gonzaga Bolsters NCAA Tournament Hopes with Victory over Saint Mary’s
MORAGA, Calif. – No. 23 Gonzaga Bulldogs secured a crucial 70-57 victory over No. 17 Saint Mary’s Gaels on Saturday night, bolstering their chances of an NCAA Tournament berth.
Graham Ike led the Bulldogs with 24 points, continuing his impressive streak of scoring at least 20 points in seven consecutive games. Ryan Nembhard contributed 20 points and 10 assists, while Ben Gregg added 12 points.
Saint Mary’s, who had won 16 straight games, struggled to contain Gonzaga’s offense. The Bulldogs shot 64% in the first half, building a 44-28 halftime lead. Aidan Mahaney led the Gaels with 16 points, while Mitchell Saxen added 13.
Gonzaga’s victory was particularly significant as they had lost to Saint Mary’s at home earlier in the season. The Bulldogs have now won eight straight games since that defeat, including three Quad 1 victories.
The win puts Gonzaga in a strong position heading into the WCC Tournament. The Bulldogs are now 24-6 overall and 14-2 in conference play. Saint Mary’s, who clinched the WCC title on Thursday, will also participate in the tournament.
Gonzaga’s streak of 24 consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances was in jeopardy before this recent surge. However, their impressive run has put them in a good position to receive an at-large bid if necessary.
Saint Mary’s, on the other hand, will need to rely on their defense and ball protection to continue their success in the WCC Tournament. They will face a tough challenge in the semifinals against either Gonzaga or BYU.
