High-Stakes Showdown: No. 3 Gonzaga Faces San Diego State in Battle of Unbeaten Teams
In what promises to be an electrifying matchup, the No. 3 Gonzaga Bulldogs (3-0) will face off against the San Diego State Aztecs (2-0) tonight at Viejas Arena. This highly anticipated game marks Gonzaga’s first road test of the season and a chance for revenge after last year’s surprising home loss to the Aztecs.
A Tale of Two Powerhouses
The Bulldogs enter this contest riding high after a dominant 113-54 victory over UMass-Lowell. Their offensive firepower has been nothing short of spectacular, averaging an impressive 100.7 points per game. Ryan Nembhard has been a driving force behind their success, ranking second in the nation with 10 assists per game and maintaining an exceptional 15-to-1 assist-to-turnover ratio.
Leading the scoring charge for Gonzaga is Arkansas transfer Khalif Battle, who’s averaging 17.3 points per game. The Bulldogs’ depth is evident in their balanced attack, with Braden Huff (16 points), Nolan Hickman (13.3 points), and Graham Ike (11.7 points) all making significant contributions.
San Diego State, while sporting a perfect record, has taken a different path to success. The Aztecs showcased their defensive prowess by holding UC San Diego to just 58 points in their opener before exploding for 100 points against Occidental. Wayne McKinney III, BJ Davis, and Magoon Gwath have emerged as key players, each contributing 16 points in their latest victory.
Strength vs. Strength
What makes this matchup particularly intriguing is the clash of styles. The Aztecs currently lead the nation in two-point field goal defense, allowing opponents to convert just 28.6% of their attempts inside the arc. However, a Gonzaga offense, ranking 27th nationally in two-point shooting at 61.8%, will test them.
Gonzaga head coach Mark Few acknowledges the challenge ahead, saying, “They’re just a bunch of tough, athletic dudes who get you in a rock fight the way they play defense.” They’re going to absolutely pound the glass and make it tough with their physical play.”
Key Storylines to Watch
- Injury Watch: Aztecs sophomore Miles Byrd remains a game-time decision due to an ankle injury. His potential absence could be significant, considering his impressive 20-point, 8-rebound performance in the season opener.
- Size Battle: San Diego State holds a slight height advantage in their starting lineup, led by 7-footer Magoon Gwath. The Bulldogs counter with their own imposing frontcourt featuring the 6-foot-10 duo Braden Huff and Ben Gregg.
- Historical Context: This marks the sixth meeting between these programs, with San Diego State holding a 3-2 series advantage after last year’s 84-74 victory in Spokane.
Game Details
- When: Monday, November 18, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. PT/ 10:00 p.m. ET
- Where: Viejas Arena, San Diego, California
- TV: CBS Sports Network
- Odds: Gonzaga is favored by 10.5 points; over/under: 150.
Prediction
Despite the challenging road environment and San Diego State’s defensive excellence, Gonzaga’s offensive firepower and depth should prove too much for a rebuilt Aztecs squad. Bulldogs should cover the spread and keep their unbeaten streak in an entertaining game.
The combination of Nembhard’s playmaking, Battle’s scoring punch, and Gonzaga’s efficient offense should help them overcome San Diego State’s defensive pressure and secure a statement road victory.