Gonzaga’s nonconference schedule filled with intriguing matchups for new, returning Zags

San Diego State coach Brian Dutcher had a need to improve his team’s schedule, so he reached out to Gonzaga coach Mark Few. As it turns out, Few had the same goal.

“I always call Mark,” Dutcher said during Mountain West Conference Media Day. “He’s a well-known coach and his team’s schedule reflects that. They play national games on neutral courts.”

Dutcher continued, “In the past, we’ve played each other at our respective home courts. But this time, we wanted to give our fans an exciting home game. We’ve both gained national recognition, and we want to continue building on that.”

And so, the two-game set was scheduled, starting on Dec. 29 at the McCarthey Athletic Center. San Diego State instantly became the main attraction on Gonzaga’s nonconference home schedule, but there are other exciting matchups scheduled elsewhere.

Gonzaga’s schedule appeals to many, especially returning and new players familiar with the prominent opponents. For example, Gonzaga’s Graham Ike, who previously played for Wyoming, went 0-4 against San Diego State. And point guard Ryan Nembhard faced the Aztecs twice in the NCAA Tournament during his time at Creighton.

“Obviously, we competed against them last year in the tournament,” Nembhard said. “But I’m looking forward to this new opportunity. They are a great program.”

Nembhard also discussed his previous wrist injury, stating, “It wasn’t too serious. I just had some numbness, but now I’m fully recovered.”

Coach Dutcher also noted Nembhard’s injury, saying, “He played through it, but he wasn’t at full strength.”

Gonzaga’s second-best nonconference home game is against Yale, the favored Ivy League champions. This matchup is especially anticipated for Gonzaga’s senior wing Steele Venters, who played against Yale last season for Eastern Washington.

Gonzaga will also have a rematch against Purdue and defending national champion UConn, two teams that defeated them handily last season. In addition, Gonzaga will face tough competition in the Maui Invitational, potentially going up against some of the top-ranked teams.

Fifth-year senior forward Anton Watson expressed excitement for these challenging games, especially the matchup against Purdue. He said, “We need to get past them because we’re aiming to win the tournament.”

Lastly, Gonzaga has a game scheduled against Kentucky in Lexington, Kentucky. According to Coach Few, scheduling the game during a time when there is no football adds to the excitement.

Watson also looks forward to the Kentucky game, saying, “Playing in that arena will be something special, something I’ll remember for the rest of my life.”

Coach Few acknowledges that this schedule is typical for Gonzaga, as they aim for a No. 1 seed in the tournament. He also highlights the strength of the WCC, believing it is underestimated by many.