9. Gonzaga (17-1)
In recent memory the story with Gonzaga has always been very similar, as this team has been completely dominant in the WCC. The Bulldogs aren’t going unbeaten every season and do get their fair share of tests, but they’ve had some closer battles than expected here in the opening weeks of league play. After passing several major tests in nonconference play, you have to wonder what exactly this means for Gonzaga.
Last Sunday’s effort wasn’t one of those close calls, as the Bulldogs played tough against Loyola Marymount in an 82-47 victory. Graham Ike led the charge with 16 points and 7 rebounds as Gonzaga took care of business. Thursday’s action looked iffy early, with Gonzaga down early before blitzing ahead in the second half in an 89-77 win against Santa Clara. Ike was phenomenal with 34 points and 11 rebounds as the Bulldogs shot 58% from the floor as a team.
There might still be a few cobwebs here and there but the Bulldogs are largely still coasting their way through their final season in the WCC. They did need overtime to beat Seattle just over a week ago but look like they’re exorcising those demons ever since. Nobody’s about to assume Gonzaga will keep marching after these recent tests, though there’s still certainly intrigue with next week’s road games at Washington State and in that rematch at Seattle.