Gonzaga Wins Another Beating Santa Clara 79-57

The Zags remain undefeated in conference play with yet another impressive win. Gonzaga played its strengths, utilizing scoring in the paint and open shots from the outside.

Jan 10, 2015; Spokane, WA, USA; Gonzaga Bulldogs center Przemek Karnowski (24) puts up a shot against Santa Clara Broncos center Emmanuel Ndumanya (50) during the second half at McCarthey Athletic Center. The Bulldogs won 79-57. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports

No one could stop player of the game, Przemek Kanowski who finished with 18 points, nine rebounds, and he added two blocks. He was often guarded by 6′ 6″ sophomore forward, Nate Kratch. Kratch could not keep up at all. Kanowski’s size was far too much for any Santa Clara defender to handle. Kanowski along with Sabonis and Wiltjer ran the high-low post game to perfection. This is something that will have to continue in order for the Zags to remain successful. So far, it doesn’t look like anyone can stop them.

The shining light for Santa Clara was forward Matt Hubbard. He shot lights out from three and made it a close game for much of the first half. He is a redshirt freshman who will surely make an impact for the rest of this season and many seasons to come. He finished the game with 15 points, going 5-9 from three point range.

Santa Clara’s guards played well also. Jared Brownridge finished with 14 points, three rebounds, and three assists. The Broncos’ guards showed their experience, but overall could not keep up with the Zags.

The game really showed how strong Gonzaga is in multiple offensive facets. First off, the post play is nearly impossible to stop. Also, the Zags can shoot the three very well. Kevin Pangos is starting to find his groove and is playing well lately. Gary Bell Jr. was off tonight, but when he is playing as well as everyone knows he can, this team will be even more dangerous. For the first time in a while Gonzaga has a strong presence at the three guard in Byron Wesley. Wesley is consistent. He can fight through contact and does a good job of getting to the line. The Zags are also very deep. I imagine that Domantas Sabonis will be the WCC sixth man of the year. Freshman guard, Silas Melson is progressing well, and once Eric McClellan is ready to play that will add even more depth at the guard position. It is possible that Josh Perkins may also return from his broken jaw injury this season, but there seems to be a lot of uncertainty around that decision.

More from West Coast Convo

This game against Santa Clara was what most people expected. The Zags showcased their talent in many ways and won big. Santa Clara is a good team though. They have some talented young players. If they could add some more height they could be dangerous in a couple years.

The Zags are set to play at Pepperdine on Thursday, January 15. Santa Clara will play next at home against the St. Katherine Firebirds on Tuesday, January 13.

Home/Gonzaga