Zags Lose Heartbreaker to Arizona

Arizona is clutch.  Both teams played tough and it made for an entertaining game, but the Wildcats ended up getting a 66-63 overtime win.

The Zags had the lead for the majority of the game.  It was close for the entire time.  One team would begin to make a run and the other would counter that run.  This back and fourth action was pure entrainment.  It was great to watch.  Both teams were able to execute on the defensive end, which is slightly odd for the Zags.  Arizona was able to hold Gonzaga to the fewest amount of points that they have scored all season.

Kyle Wiltjer led all scorers with 15 points.  He also pulled down 7 rebounds and added an assist.  For Arizona, Brandon Ashley had 14 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists.  Gonzaga’s Kevin Pangos was doing a great job distributing the ball.  He ended with 8 points and 6 assists.  Przemek Karnowski looked better than ever this season.  He finished with 10 points and 11 boards.  He made a nice midrange shot that left Zag fans in disbelief.  If he can begin to make those shots constantly he will add another element of offense to his game.  As a big man that is already hard to defend, this would put his game at the next level.

Dec 6, 2014; Tucson, AZ, USA; Arizona Wildcats guard T.J. McConnell (4) shoots the ball as he is defended by Gonzaga Bulldogs guard Kevin Pangos (4) during overtime at McKale Center. Arizona won 66-63 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports

After the back and forth contest was tied at the end of regulation, Arizona guard T.J. McConnell made some clutch baskets that sealed the deal for the Wildcats.

Byron Wesley had the opportunity to tie the game in overtime when he was fouled while shooting a three pointer.  Unfortunately he missed all three shots.

Another problem that the Zags faced was foul trouble.  Domantas Sabonis had two quick fouls early in the game, which lessened his impact on the game significantly.  This had been a problem as of late, but I expect it to improve as he continues to adjust.  Josh Perkins’ absence was also noted.  Kevin Pangos played for 43 minutes.  His fatigue was apparent, especially in overtime.

This game showed that Gonzaga can hang with top teams.  It’s easy to look at the negatives from this game, but so many things went right in this game.  I think that the Zags will build on this loss and come back stronger than ever.