NCAA Basketball: Duke, Michigan State fall in latest top 25 power ranking

13. Gonzaga (1-0)

Every passing year seems to spell the same story for Gonzaga, a program we can certainly call a power conference team in a mid-major conference. The Bulldogs have been perennial national contenders in recent years, advancing to at least the Sweet Sixteen of the last eight NCAA Tournaments. Things look a bit different his season with Drew Timme gone from Spokane, but there’s still plenty of talent and reason for high expectations.

While the game may have been closer than some expected, Gonzaga opened their season on Friday night with an 86-71 victory against Yale. It was a brilliant offensive performance that saw four of their five starters in double figures, while Braden Huff’s 19 points off the bench actually led the team. Additionally, Creighton transfer Ryan Nembhard had 16 points and 7 assists in his first game with the Bulldogs.

The news that Steele Venters would miss the season was a major blow for the Bulldogs, but it’s certainly not the end of the world. Mark Few has built another talented lineup that should be a favorite in the WCC and for more postseason success. Growing pains wouldn’t be shocking this season, though we seriously doubt that’ll come in their next game against Eastern Oregon.