Gonzaga Basketball: 4 current potential targets in transfer portal
By Tuck Clarry
After a disappointing end to another tournament where Gonzaga Basketball was the odds on favorite to win their first championship, the 2022 offseason has been one leaving Bulldogs fans waiting for the next shoe to drop.
The entirety of Gonzaga’s starting lineup from last season is currently testing NBA waters with point guard Andrew Nembhard and freshman bigman Chet Holmgren definitively not returning. Because of the extended process and eligibility, offseason answers may not come until June 1st.
That late window may make Zag nation concerned about the portal’s remaining targets, but in actuality, it perfectly coincides with the needs the Zags have headed into a wide-open season: pro-level talent. Even if no starter returns, Gonzaga will be building off of a roster with six players rated four-stars or higher going into college.
Dominick Harris will finally get his opportunity after a season away with injury. Sophomores Nolan Hickman and Hunter Sallis might be two of the most underrated returning players heading into this season. Anton Watson is poised for a larger role in his senior season.
It is worth noting as well that there is a likelihood that several of these pro-prospect Zags return. In a lot of ways, the biggest get for Mark Few’s program would be an All-American like Drew Timme, senior three-level scorer and fastbreak phenom Rasir Bolton or rising offensive initiating wing Julian Strawther. There’s a reason that that team was widely considered the most talented in the country.
Efton Reid’s commitment was the first good news for the 2022-2023 season and that came on May 1st. Reid is a key foundational piece for this offseason on multiple levels. I broke down his significance on his signing day as an exceptional second big man with the upside of being one of the most dominant bigs in the country if he reaches his potential.
So with the understanding that the cupboard is not bare, here are some remaining portal targets that could keep Gonzaga in the conversation for title contention.