The long-standing and intense basketball rivalry between Saint Mary's and the No. 6 ranked Gonzaga Bulldogs is approaching a significant turning point. With Gonzaga set to transition to the Pac-12 conference next season, their annual multiple matchups will soon become a thing of the past. The initial West Coast Conference (WCC) regular-season game between these two formidable teams is scheduled for Saturday evening in Spokane, Washington.
Gonzaga Prepares for Challenging Rivalry Game Against Saint Mary's
In Spokane, Washington, on Saturday evening, the Gonzaga Bulldogs, currently ranked No. 6, are set to face their long-time rivals, Saint Mary's, in a pivotal West Coast Conference matchup. This game marks the first of two regular-season encounters, taking on added significance as Gonzaga prepares for its move to the Pac-12 next season, signaling the end of an era for this heated rivalry. Historically, Gonzaga has dominated the series with 27 wins out of the last 37 games. However, Saint Mary's has proven to be a formidable opponent, securing victories in six of their last eleven meetings, including two regular-season wins against the Bulldogs in the previous season. Gonzaga, under the leadership of coach Mark Few, enters the game with an impressive 14-game winning streak and a 21-1 overall record (9-0 WCC). Coach Few expressed his respect for Saint Mary's, highlighting their defensive solidity and strong rebounding. Meanwhile, Saint Mary's, with a record of 19-3 (8-1 WCC), arrives with considerable confidence, aiming for their third consecutive victory in Spokane, a feat not achieved since the late 1980s. The Gaels are on the cusp of clinching their 18th 20-win season in 19 years, a testament to Coach Randy Bennett's consistent program building. Key players for Saint Mary's include Paulius Murauskas, who leads the WCC in scoring with an average of 19.3 points per game and is a dominant rebounder. Gonzaga is also set to welcome back star big man Graham Ike, who has been recovering from an ankle injury. Ike leads Gonzaga in scoring with 18.1 points per game and is a top rebounder in the WCC. Despite the return of Ike, Gonzaga will be without forward Braden Huff due to a knee injury. The Bulldogs' depth was tested in their recent narrow 68-66 victory over San Francisco, underscoring the challenges they face even with a stellar record.
This impending game between Gonzaga and Saint Mary's transcends a mere basketball contest; it symbolizes the conclusion of an impactful rivalry. For both teams, it's an opportunity to assert dominance and leave a lasting impression as their paths diverge. The game underscores the transient nature of collegiate sports landscapes, reminding us to cherish these intense, hard-fought competitions while they last, as they contribute significantly to the rich tapestry of college basketball history.