Gonzaga Basketball: Projected roster rotation and minutes for 2024-25 season

Power Forward

Projected starter: Michael Ajayi (26 mpg)

Bench: Ben Gregg (14 mpg)

One of the first players to commit out of the transfer portal was Ajayi, a 6’7 forward from Kent, Washington. After two years at the JUCO level, Ajayi stood out at Pepperdine, averaging 17.2 ppg and 9.9 rpg. He not only showed that he can create his offense well but Ajayi can spread the floor too, making 39/83 (47%) from deep.

Ajayi was a late returnee from the NBA Draft, as someone who reportedly had a nice combine. It’s hard to envision him coming off the bench but there’s a chance that Gregg could get the nod since he’s been around for four years.

One question is whether or not Ajayi and Gregg could play together on the court. It worked well with Gregg and Anton Watson but the former Bulldog’s versatility can’t be replicated. Plus, it’s unknown as to whether Ajayi can defend at the three-spot or even defend at all since that wasn’t a strength for anyone at Pepperdine last season.

The small forward position will be the most up for grabs but the four-spot could be the most important. Considering that there needs to be spacing, it’s going to be important for Ajayi to be a legit three-point shooter on a larger scale. If he does it, Gonzaga will have gotten a terrific in-league pickup.