11. Gonzaga (5-seed)
Ben Gregg (Junior – Forward)
It’s year four for Gregg at Gonzaga, though it’s his first year as a starter in the Bulldog’s frontcourt. Gregg averages 9.2 points and 5.7 rebounds and plays an increasing role for a Gonzaga team that leans heavily on its forwards and big men. He does shoot greater than 38% from long-range, with decent numbers in recent weeks, and just put up 15 points and 9 rebounds in that win over Kansas on Saturday.
Nolan Hickman (Junior – Guard)
Formerly a highly-rated prospect, Hickman is finally coming into his element in his third season as a Bulldog. He averages 13.9 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 2.7 assists in his second season as one of Gonzaga’s starting guards and is capable of creating offensive fireworks for the Bulldogs. Hickman makes 42% of his 3-pointers, sitting among the best sharpshooters in the WCC, and recently dropped 20 points against San Francisco and 17 in the Tourney’s second round against Kansas.
Graham Ike (Junior – Forward)
Two years ago Ike developed into a major weapon at Wyoming, but then missed the entirety of last season due to medical issues. He opted to transfer to Gonzaga, becoming the Bulldogs’ leading scorer and rebounder with 16.4 points and 7.3 rebounds a game. Ike is one of the best offensive pieces in the WCC and nearly had double-doubles in each of Gonzaga’s first two NCAA Tournament games. He recently scored 20+ points in seven straight games and is always a threat down low.
Ryan Nembhard (Junior – Guard)
A major part of postseason success as an underclassman at Creighton, Nembhard transferred to Gonzaga this past offseason and averaged 12.6 points and 6.9 assists this season for the Bulldogs. A phenomenal addition, Nembhard is not only one of the nation’s best point guards but has significant experience for a junior guard. He hasn’t scored a ton in the NCAA Tournament but is averaging 9.4 assists in Gonzaga’s last eleven games and plays a major role in this system.
Anton Watson (Senior – Forward)
Now in year five at Gonzaga, Watson has taken yet another step forward, averaging 14.5 points and 7.2 rebounds per game as a massive frontcourt weapon for this program. His scoring numbers are at a career-high while he’s made 61% of his field goals on the year. He flirted with a triple-double with a 13-point, 13-rebound, 9-assist effort against McNeese before dropping 21 points on Kansas; it’s been a great start to his NCAA Tournament.