Gonzaga vs West Virginia: 3 biggest storylines for Jimmy V Classic matchup

How West Virginia deals with Timme and potentially Kispert

When former WCC Player of the Year Filip Petrusev left, Gonzaga wasn’t worried at all, since they could simply elevate sophomore big man Drew Timme to the starting center role. He’s looked every bit of an All-American thus far, averaging 26.5 ppg and 8.0 rpg in two games, including handling Kansa big man David McCormack in their matchup inside.

Timme is one of the best skilled big men in the country and will be a major test for both Oscar Tshiebwe and Derek Culver inside. They’re two of the best individual frontcourt defenders in the country and will certainly take turns in guarding him but they also have to watch for the constant screens and pick and rolls that the Zags offense will utilize.

The center position will be important but even more may be what happens at power forward. Redshirt freshman Anton Watson will start for Gonzaga and he’s known for being a great defender. He’ll have his work cut out for him guarding Culver (15.0 ppg and 10. rpg) in this game.

The other would be having wing Corey Kispert play at the undersized forward spot. This would be a scenario where he wouldn’t be able to guard Culver in the post but Culver wouldn’t e able to guard him on the perimeter. Small-ball with Kispert at the four in Gonzaga’s “death lineup” and nearly impossible to stop. Depending on who gets the advantage there may force the opposing coach’s hand.