Gonzaga Basketball: 2023 keys to avoiding road upset at San Francisco

March 7, 2022; Las Vegas, NV, USA; San Francisco Dons guard Julian Rishwain (2) dribbles the basketball against Gonzaga Bulldogs guard Hunter Sallis (10) during the first half in the semifinals of the WCC Basketball Championships at Orleans Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /

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Gonzaga Bulldogs guard Malachi Smith James Snook-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Good game from Nolan Hickman… or more Malachi Smith

Not everyone had a good game for Gonzaga Basketball against Pepperdine. Starting point guard Nolan Hickman went scoreless in the game in 14 minutes, missing all five shots and turning it over four times. The offensive issues weren’t the issue as much as the ball-handling, which was a strength of his in the non-conference.

In his place was Malachi Smith, who had 15 points in 25 minutes, making all 3 three-pointers in the game. It’s exactly what the transfer from Chattanooga was brought in for, as a versatile perimeter player that can run the offense whenever Hickman is out. The senior veteran did a great job against the Waves and will certainly get minutes versus the experienced Dons.

Besides Shabazz, San Francisco also has Washington State transfer Tyrell Roberts (14.2 ppg and 2.4 apg), as well as former Texas A&M guard and current 6th Man, Marcus Williams. When these guards are on, the Dons are capable of beating anyone, especially at home.

For long-term reasons, Gonzaga ideally wants Hickman to have an effective game against the Dons on the road. But as Coach Few has shown, the leash won’t be long if he struggles again and Smith is capable of taking over if need be.