Washington looks to finally get a win against rival Gonzaga in what could be their best chance yet. Can the Huskies pull off the upset?
TV schedule: Friday, December 9th, 9:00 pm ET. Check local listings
Arena: McCarthey Athletic Center in Spokane, Washington
The overall series between Gonzaga and Washington can be split into two runs, one of dominance by each team. The Huskies won 20 of the first 25 games between them, while the Bulldogs have won 13 of the last 14 games. Covid has caused the past couple of games to be canceled, with the last matchup played being an 83-76 GU win.
Gonzaga (6-3) is almost done with its brutal non-conference schedule, coming off recently a close loss to Baylor and a 73-66 victory over Kent State. The WCC program was down four points with just a few minutes left and needed all 29 points and 17 rebounds from Drew Timme, as the supporting cast collectively struggled all night.
The point guard play from both Nolan Hickman and Malachi Smith has been inconsistent to this point, while Julian Strawther as a second option has had its ups and downs. The 18th-ranked Bulldogs still have plenty of talent but unlike the past few years, aren’t a top-5 team in the country.
That should give hope to Washington (7-2, 1-1), who had one of the more competitive starts to the season under head coach Mike Hopkins. They’re coming off a 73-63 home win over Colorado, led by 16 points from both Cole Bajema and Braxton Meah. Keion Brooks and Jamal Bey also were in double figures as well. The Kentucky transfer Brooks has been the team’s best player, producing 16.6 ppg and 7.0 rpg through nine games.
The Huskies will likely be without center Franck Kepnang, who recently suffered an injury and is a big loss since he could guard Timme. And freshman guard Keyon Menifield has cooled off after a hot start to the season. They’ll need all hands on deck to pull off the road upset.
On paper, this is probably the closest Gonzaga and Washington have been when it comes to talent. And still, the Bulldogs are going to be a clear favorite. But if the guards struggle, it could be another close call on Friday night.
Prediction: Gonzaga 80, Washington 70