Gonzaga’s discussions with Big 12 a hot topic at WCC Media Day

On Oct. 12, Gonzaga found themselves in an unfamiliar position as they were picked second in the West Coast Conference coaches preseason poll, behind Saint Mary’s. This is only the second time since 2001 that the Zags haven’t been in the top spot.

While this was a talking point at WCC Media Day, the real buzz was about Gonzaga’s ongoing discussions with the Big 12 Conference. Multiple WCC coaches, including Gonzaga’s Mark Few, and commissioner Stu Jackson weighed in on the possibility of the Zags joining the Big 12, which recently added former WCC member BYU.

During the media day, Few shared his focus on the upcoming year and playing in the WCC. He acknowledged that these discussions have been happening for a while and that if something happens, it happens, and if not, it doesn’t.

The Zags and the Big 12 have been in steady dialogue for about a year, but it recently returned to the forefront with reports of high-level conversations involving GU’s administration and Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark. Yormark is interested in bringing Gonzaga in as a 17th member, which would further strengthen what is already considered the best basketball conference in the country.

A final decision could come as early as next week, and reports suggest that Gonzaga could potentially make the move after this season or in two years.

Coach Few emphasized the reality of the current college landscape, where transfers, players, and conferences are constantly changing. He encouraged his team to focus on the present and make the best out of each day, rather than worrying about what may or may not happen.

WCC commissioner Stu Jackson, who took on the role in March, acknowledges the changing landscape and the need for information and strategic decision-making in conference realignment. He compares his role to that of a coach, managing the roster each year to ensure stability and success.

Saint Mary’s coach Randy Bennett expressed his surprise at the changes in the Pac-12 conference, calling it “insanity.” He emphasizes the importance of schools focusing on what they can control and making decisions that are best for them.

Loyola Marymount coach Stan Johnson spoke highly of Gonzaga transfer Dominick Harris and his potential to make a big impact on the LMU team. Harris, who joined LMU after considering other schools, including former WCC rival BYU, is seen as a talented player who can provide much-needed depth to the team.

Drew Timme, a standout player for Gonzaga, has moved on to the pros, much to the relief of Saint Mary’s coach Randy Bennett, who won’t have to prepare for his challenging style of play anymore.