Gonzaga Basketball: 3 keys to road matchup at San Diego State Aztecs

Gonzaga Basketball has passed the first few tests of the 2024-25 season, beating Baylor, Arizona State, and UMass Lowell close to home. However, their next challenge will be on the road, taking on San Diego State. The Aztecs are 2-0 on the season, including a 5-point over UC San Diego.

A year ago, the Bulldogs lost at home to the Aztecs so they'll be looking to return the favor in California. Here are three keys to watch for in this game for Gonzaga.

1. Take advantage of guard injuries

The Aztecs are a bit banged up coming into the game. Reese Waters, the leading returning scorer from last year, is still out with a foot injury. Making matters worse, Myles Byrd, who had 20 points, eight rebounds, five steals, and four blocks in the game against UC San Diego, has also been injured and is questionable for Monday night.

The good news for the Aztecs is that they do have depth. BJ Davis leads the team with 13.5 ppg and had 28 points in an scrimmage win over UCLA, reportedly making eight three-pointers. Nick Boyd (FAU) and Wayne McKinney (San Diego) are transfers with starting experience. Still, Gonzaga will have the edge, especially with transfer Khalif Battle already playing at a high level.

2. Get ready for a dogfight

For the last couple of decades, San Diego State's identity has been about playing hard-nosed defense and not getting into shootouts. It's worked for them, whether at home or away. If you're the Bulldogs, don't expect this game to end up in the 80s and 90s. But a faster-paced game will go in their favor, rather than a first to 60 slugfest.

3. Continue defending the 3 well

One thing that Gonzaga has done well early on is defend the three. Through the first three games, the Bulldogs have allowed just 23% from deep, good for top-20 nationally. And they've gone against some good teams as well.

For San Diego State to have a shot at the upset, they'll need to make some threes. But if Gonzaga puts the clamps on them, then the odds of pulling off an upset are close to none.