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

Miles McBride vs Jalen Suggs

Gonzaga’s backcourt already was considered one of the best in the country, led by star freshman Jalen Suggs and junior Joel Ayayi. Both have looked great so far on both ends of the court. And that wasn’t even supposed to include Florida transfer Andrew Nembhard, who was set to sit out this season before getting a waiver from the NCAA to play.

Add defensive standout and Southern Illinois grad transfer Aaron Cook, and you have the kind of depth that only Baylor can be able to match. Whether it’s scoring or defense, Gonzaga will be able to have great guard play at any time in the game.

Perimeter offense was a big weakness for West Virginia last season, not having a single guard average in double figures in scoring. The closest was Miles McBride, who is now having the breakout campaign many expected of the sophomore. In three games, the 6’2 guard is leading the team with 16.3 ppg and 3.3 apg.

The Mountaineers also have a pair of other guards currently averaging in double figures in Sean McNeil (13.7 ppg) and Taz Sherman (11.7 ppg). Of course, it’s still early but the fact that they’re winning games with Tshiebwe (who led WVU in scoring last year) only putting up 7.7 ppg right now is an encouraging sign.

The expectations for West Virginia’s guards will be somehow trying to slow down both Suggs and Ayayi defensively, while still being able to score and shoot the ball themselves. What McBride does on both ends of this court will be a major factor in this one.