Gonzaga Basketball: 5 takeaways from 2022-23 non-conference campaign

Dec 12, 2022; Spokane, Washington, USA; Gonzaga Bulldogs forward Ben Gregg (33) and forward Drew Timme (2) celebrate after a play against the Northern Illinois Huskies in the second half at McCarthey Athletic Center. Gonzaga won 88-67. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports /

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Gonzaga Basketball Nolan Hickman James Snook-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Nolan Hickman has overall been solid for Gonzaga Basketball

The biggest reason why the Bulldogs have consistently been a Final Four contender is due to having an elite point guard. Kevin Pangos, Josh Perkins, Nigel Williams-Goss, Jalen Suggs, and Andrew Nembhard have run the offense for Gonzaga in the last decade and it’s been a while since an unproven player has been given the keys. Hickman was a bench player for a year but had to step up as a sophomore.

Through 14 games, Hickman is averaging 8.6 ppg and 3.8 apg, while shooting 42% from the field and 36% from three-point range on four attempts. Arguably the most important thing has been his 53 assists to 22 turnovers, which is around 1.5 giveaways on the season. As a ball-handler, he’s been very consistent in picking and choosing when he shoots vs strictly being a passer.

The concern has been the inconsistent scoring. Hickman has been in double figures just six out of 14 games, including four with five points or fewer. That includes a scoreless outing in 34 minutes against Baylor, though he did have eight assists.

But Coach Few has trusted Hickman to be on the court most of the time, including all 40 minutes in a close win over Kent State. Against an overall tough schedule, it certainly can’t be said that he’s not good enough to be a starter on a team that can make a run in March. But Hickman will have to show that he can be consistent in WCC play, especially as a scorer.