Chasing Greatness Again: Gonzaga’s 2025–26 Non-Conference Road to March

Mark Few and his Gonzaga Bulldogs are coming off another outstanding season that ended with 26 wins and another run near the top of the West Coast Conference.
Gonzaga Bulldogs head coach Mark Few
Gonzaga Bulldogs head coach Mark Few | Nick Tre. Smith-Imagn Images

Few, now entering his 26th year at the helm, continues to build on a remarkable legacy that includes 742 career victories.

As always, the Bulldogs will challenge themselves early. Their 2025–26 non-conference schedule is packed with national powerhouses, tough road trips, and plenty of opportunities to make another statement before WCC play begins.

Monday, November 3 vs. Texas Southern

Gonzaga opens the season at home against a familiar type of opponent, a hungry Texas Southern team that never shies away from top-tier competition. It’s a solid first test for a new-look Bulldog squad looking to find its rhythm early.

Saturday, November 8 vs. Oklahoma (Spokane Arena)

The Bulldogs stay close to home but move downtown to the Spokane Arena to take on Oklahoma. Porter Moser’s Sooners come from the SEC with plenty of uncertainty, but always play tough. Gonzaga leads the all-time series 3–1, including a dominant win in March 2021.

Tuesday, November 11 vs. Creighton

Two programs built on skill and tempo collide as Creighton visits Spokane. Doug McDermott’s Bluejays have high expectations, and this early showdown could have March implications. Gonzaga owns a 6–5 edge in the all-time series, with their last meeting a Bulldog win in the 2021 NCAA Tournament.

Friday, November 14 at Arizona State

The Bulldogs hit the road for a true test in Tempe. A year ago, these teams went toe-to-toe before Gonzaga pulled away late for an 88–80 win. Bobby Hurley’s Sun Devils will look for payback in what should be a lively desert atmosphere.

Monday, November 17 vs. Southern Utah

A breather before the holiday tournament stretch, this home matchup gives Few a chance to fine-tune rotations before heading to Las Vegas.

Monday, November 24 vs. Alabama (Las Vegas)

Gonzaga opens its Vegas showcase against Nate Oats and Alabama in what promises to be a shootout. The last time they met in 2022, the teams combined for 190 points, with the Zags winning by ten. Expect another high-scoring thriller.

Tuesday, November 25 vs. Maryland (Las Vegas)

New Maryland head coach Buzz Williams brings a different style, one built on defense and toughness. It will be just the second meeting ever between these programs, offering Gonzaga another strong neutral-site test.

Friday, December 5 vs. Kentucky (Nashville)

After the trip to Vegas, the Zags head to Nashville to face Kentucky in a marquee matchup between two storied programs. Mark Pope’s Wildcats edged Gonzaga 90–89 last season, and Few’s squad will be eager for revenge. Fans in Tennessee are in for a show.

Sunday, December 7 vs. North Florida

A quick turnaround from Nashville back to Spokane, this one gives Gonzaga a chance to reset before another big showdown.

Saturday, December 13 vs. UCLA (Seattle)

The Bulldogs return to Seattle to face longtime rival UCLA, now a Big Ten member. Gonzaga leads the series 7–3, though the Bruins won a close one last season. This matchup always brings intensity and plenty of West Coast pride.

Wednesday, December 17 vs. Campbell

A lighter spot on the schedule, this game gives Gonzaga’s bench a chance to shine. For Campbell, it’s a rare opportunity to measure up against one of college basketball’s elite programs.

Sunday, December 21 vs. Oregon (Portland)

The Bulldogs close non-conference play in Portland against Oregon, another new Big Ten program. Despite their geographic location, this will be just the third meeting between the teams since 1999. Gonzaga edged the Ducks by one point in their last clash in 2019.

Another Journey Begins

Once again, Gonzaga’s non-conference schedule offers the perfect mix of challenge and opportunity. From Las Vegas to Nashville to Portland, the Bulldogs will test themselves against some of the nation’s best before WCC play begins. It’s a familiar path for Mark Few and his program, one built on ambition, toughness, and the pursuit of excellence. The road to March always starts in November, and Gonzaga looks ready to chase greatness once again.

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