In a thrilling West Coast Conference (WCC) tournament clash, No. 17 Gonzaga secured an 89-77 victory over San Francisco to advance to the championship game. Nolan Hickman’s impressive performance, contributing 20 points and six assists, played a pivotal role in the Bulldogs’ success.
Ben Gregg’s standout display, adding 17 points and 11 rebounds, fueled Gonzaga’s second-half surge, particularly with four 3-pointers within the first 6 1/2 minutes. The Bulldogs’ sharpshooting and offensive prowess propelled them to the WCC title game, where they will face top-seeded Saint Mary’s.
Anton Watson (17 points, seven rebounds) and Ryan Nembhard (16 points, 12 assists) also played crucial roles for Gonzaga in their 25th win of the season. The Bulldogs, aiming for their 17th consecutive season with at least 25 victories, showcased their dominance over San Francisco, securing their 30th consecutive win against the Dons.
Malik Thomas led the scoring for third-seeded San Francisco with 22 points, while Marcus Williams added 17 points and six assists. Despite their efforts, the Dons couldn’t overcome Gonzaga’s offensive efficiency, especially from beyond the arc.
Gonzaga’s 11-of-20 shooting from 3-point range and a 50.8% overall field goal percentage highlighted their offensive prowess. Ben Gregg’s sharpshooting spree in the second half allowed Gonzaga to turn a one-point halftime lead into a substantial 63-47 advantage.
The Bulldogs’ celebration reached its peak when Gregg hit two consecutive 3-pointers, extending the lead to 16 points with 13:35 left. Despite San Francisco’s attempts to close the gap, Gonzaga held on to secure the victory.
Gonzaga’s solid performance, combined with their efficient ball control (only three turnovers), demonstrated their determination to reach the WCC championship. As they prepare to face Saint Mary’s in the title game, the Bulldogs aim to continue their winning streak and secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament.
