Get ready for a thrilling season of college basketball as the Gonzaga Bulldogs unveil their highly anticipated schedule for the 2024-2025 campaign. The Zags, renowned for their consistent excellence and passionate fan base, are set to embark on a challenging and exhilarating journey that promises unforgettable moments and electrifying matchups.
The Bulldogs, led by the astute coaching of Mark Few, will tip off their season with a series of non-conference games designed to test their limits and prepare them for the rigors of conference play. Among the notable opponents they will face in the early going are the Texas Longhorns, the Michigan State Spartans, and the Duke Blue Devils. These marquee matchups will provide a glimpse into the Zags’ potential and serve as a barometer for their title aspirations.
As the season progresses, Gonzaga will navigate through the treacherous waters of the West Coast Conference, where they have reigned supreme for over a decade. With traditional rivals such as the Saint Mary’s Gaels, the BYU Cougars, and the San Francisco Dons standing in their path, the Zags will need to summon their championship pedigree and execute at the highest level. The conference tournament in Las Vegas promises to be a battleground of intense competition, with the Bulldogs determined to secure their automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament.
Bulldogs Aim for Record-Breaking Season
The Gonzaga Bulldogs seek to make history in the upcoming 2024-2025 season. After back-to-back NCAA Tournament Elite Eight appearances, the Bulldogs are hungry for even more success. With a star-studded roster, Gonzaga has set its sights on breaking the NCAA record for consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances.
The Bulldogs have made 23 consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances, tied for the sixth-longest streak in college basketball history. The goal is to surpass Duke’s record of 24 straight appearances, set between 1996 and 2019. Coach Mark Few believes that his team has what it takes to achieve this milestone.
Gonzaga boasts a talented roster led by All-American forward Drew Timme and point guard Nolan Hickman. The Bulldogs also added five-star recruit Cameron Whitmore, the top-ranked recruit in the Class of 2023.
The Bulldogs’ schedule features several challenging matchups against traditional powers like Duke, Kentucky, and North Carolina. Gonzaga will also play in the Maui Invitational and the Battle 4 Atlantis tournaments.
Non-Conference Slate Features Top-Tier Opponents
Gonzaga’s non-conference schedule for the 2024-2025 season is shaping up to be one of the toughest in the country. The Bulldogs will face off against several top-tier opponents, including:
November 15: vs. Duke (Maui Invitational)
Gonzaga will open the season with a matchup against perennial powerhouse Duke at the Maui Invitational. The Blue Devils are one of the most successful programs in college basketball history, with five national championships to their name. This game will be a major test for the Bulldogs, especially considering the hostile environment of the Maui Invitational.
December 10: vs. Kentucky (Spokane Arena)
Gonzaga will face another blue-blood program in Kentucky when the Wildcats visit the Spokane Arena. Kentucky is one of the most storied programs in college basketball, with eight national championships and the most NCAA tournament wins in history. This game will be a sellout and will be a great opportunity for Gonzaga to show off its home-court advantage.
December 17: vs. UCLA (Madison Square Garden)
Gonzaga will face UCLA for the first time since 2019 when the two teams meet at Madison Square Garden in New York City. UCLA is a perennial NCAA tournament contender and has won 11 national championships. This game will be a great matchup between two of the top teams in the country.
Home Court Advantage Crucial in WCC Play
The Kennel Club, home to the Gonzaga Bulldogs men’s basketball team, is renowned for its electric atmosphere. With a capacity of over 6,000, the Kennel becomes a raucous and intimidating environment for visiting teams, providing the Bulldogs with a significant home-court advantage.
In the West Coast Conference (WCC), where Gonzaga reigns supreme, home-field advantage plays a pivotal role. The Bulldogs have posted an impressive record at the Kennel in conference play, rarely succumbing to their opponents. The raucous crowd, combined with the Bulldogs’ familiarity with their own court, creates an atmosphere that is difficult for visiting teams to overcome.
The Power of the Kennel
The Kennel has witnessed countless memorable victories for the Bulldogs. In the 2023-24 season, Gonzaga went 16-0 at home in WCC play, sweeping through their conference rivals with ease. The Bulldogs’ home winning streak in conference play currently stands at 52 games, a testament to the power of the Kennel’s home-court advantage.
The Bulldogs’ success at the Kennel is not solely due to the vocal crowd. The Bulldogs’ players also thrive in the familiar surroundings. They shoot better, rebound more effectively, and play with greater confidence in front of their home fans. The Kennel has become a sanctuary for the Bulldogs, a place where they can perform at their peak and dominate their opponents.
| Season | Home Record in WCC Play |
|---|---|
| 2023-24 | 16-0 |
| 2022-23 | 15-1 |
| 2021-22 | 13-3 |
Key Dates to Circle on the Calendar
Gonzaga’s 2024-2025 basketball schedule will feature a mix of challenging opponents and opportunities for the Bulldogs to showcase their talents.
Non-Conference Highlights
Gonzaga will face two of the nation’s top teams in non-conference play. They’ll host Kentucky on December 14th and travel to face North Carolina on January 2nd. These games will provide a tough test for the Bulldogs and give them a chance to prove themselves against some of the best in the country.
West Coast Conference Slate
As always, Gonzaga’s West Coast Conference schedule will be filled with tough matchups. They’ll play each of the league’s nine other teams twice, including a home-and-home series with archrival BYU.
NCAA Tournament Hopes
Gonzaga is expected to be one of the top teams in the country in 2024-2025, and they’ll have their sights set on making a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. They’ve reached the Sweet 16 in each of the past five years, and they’ll be looking to make it even further this time around.
Key Dates to Circle on the Calendar
Here are some key dates to circle on your calendar for the Gonzaga basketball 2024-2025 season:
| Date | Opponent | Location |
|---|---|---|
| November 30th | Xavier | McCarthey Athletic Center |
| December 14th | Kentucky | McCarthey Athletic Center |
| January 2nd | North Carolina | Dean Smith Center |
| February 25th | BYU | McCarthey Athletic Center |
| March 4th | BYU | Marriott Center |
| March 10th-17th | WCC Tournament | Orleans Arena |
| March 18th-26th | NCAA Tournament | TBD |
Season Opener Marks Return of Hometown Star
Gonzaga basketball’s 2024-25 season opener will be a special one, as it marks the return of hometown star Drew Timme. The 6-foot-10 center, who was born and raised in Spokane, Washington, is one of the most decorated players in Gonzaga history. He was a two-time first-team All-American and led the Bulldogs to the NCAA Tournament Elite Eight in 2023 and 2024.
Exhibition Games
Gonzaga will open its exhibition schedule with a game against NCAA Division II power Northwest Nazarene on November 1, 2024. The Bulldogs will then host Eastern Washington on November 6th before wrapping up their exhibition slate with a game against Lewis-Clark State on November 10th.
Regular Season
Gonzaga’s regular season begins on November 14, 2024, with a home game against Portland. The Bulldogs will then host Montana on November 17th before traveling to Las Vegas to participate in the Maui Invitational. Gonzaga will face Auburn, Baylor, and Louisville in the tournament.
Non-Conference Games
Gonzaga’s non-conference schedule also includes games against Kentucky, Duke, and UCLA. The Bulldogs will host the Wildcats and Blue Devils in Spokane, while they will travel to Los Angeles to face the Bruins. Gonzaga will also play a home-and-home series with Oregon and Washington State.
Conference Games
Gonzaga will play 18 conference games in the West Coast Conference (WCC) during the 2024-25 season. The Bulldogs will face each of their conference rivals twice, once at home and once on the road.
| Date | Opponent | Location |
|---|---|---|
| November 1, 2024 | Northwest Nazarene | Spokane, WA |
| November 6, 2024 | Eastern Washington | Spokane, WA |
| November 10, 2024 | Lewis-Clark State | Spokane, WA |
| November 14, 2024 | Portland | Spokane, WA |
| November 17, 2024 | Montana | Spokane, WA |
Veteran Leadership to Guide Young Bulldogs
Gonzaga basketball is poised for another strong season in the 2024-25 campaign, with a veteran core leading the way for a talented group of young players. The Bulldogs return three starters from last season’s NCAA Tournament team, including senior forward Drew Timme and junior guard Julian Strawther.
Timme’s Dominant Presence
Timme enters the season as one of the top players in college basketball. The 6-foot-10 forward averaged 18.4 points and 7.6 rebounds per game last season, earning All-American honors. He is a skilled scorer with a versatile offensive game, capable of hitting shots from inside and outside the paint.
Strawther’s Versatility
Strawther is a dynamic guard who provides Gonzaga with a threat from multiple areas of the court. He averaged 13.4 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game last season, showing his ability to contribute in various ways.
Outside Shooting
Strawther is an excellent outside shooter, connecting on 40.2% of his three-point attempts last season. He is a key piece of Gonzaga’s offense, providing spacing and creating opportunities for his teammates.
Watson and Hickman Step into Starting Roles
Junior guard Rasir Bolton and sophomore wing Braden Huff are expected to step into starting roles alongside Timme and Strawther. Bolton, a transfer from Iowa State, is a skilled scorer and playmaker, while Huff is a promising defender with a developing offensive game.
Experienced Bench Provides Depth
Gonzaga’s bench is also expected to contribute significantly in the 2024-25 season. Senior guard Nolan Hickman, junior center Chet Holmgren, and sophomore wing Dominick Harris are all capable of providing high-level minutes.
Holmgren’s Defensive Potential
Holmgren, in particular, is a defensive force with exceptional length and athleticism. He averaged 3.5 blocks per game last season, establishing himself as one of the top shot-blockers in the country. His presence in the paint will be a major asset for Gonzaga’s defense.
| Player | Position | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Drew Timme | Forward | Senior |
| Julian Strawther | Guard | Junior |
| Rasir Bolton | Guard | Junior |
| Braden Huff | Wing | Sophomore |
| Nolan Hickman | Guard | Senior |
| Chet Holmgren | Center | Junior |
| Dominick Harris | Wing | Sophomore |
March Madness Hopes Fuel Team’s Determination |
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Gonzaga’s March Madness legacy drives their unwavering determination to excel this season. With a rich history of tournament success, including a national runner-up finish in 2017, the Bulldogs aim to return to the NCAA’s grandest stage in 2023. Their relentless pursuit of excellence stems from a deep-seated desire to cement their place among the nation’s elite basketball programs. |
Returning Stars Provide Foundation |
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Led by All-American candidate Drew Timme, several key players return to the Gonzaga roster this season. Timme’s dominant post presence and exceptional leadership will be crucial to the team’s success. Other returning standouts include Julian Strawther, Rasir Bolton, and Anton Watson, who provide a potent combination of athleticism, experience, and shooting prowess. |
Talented Newcomers Join the Bulldogs |
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Gonzaga has welcomed a talented group of newcomers who are eager to contribute. Highly regarded prospects, such as center Efton Reid and forward Braden Huff, will look to make an immediate impact. These young players possess tremendous potential and add depth and versatility to the Bulldogs’ roster. |
Challenging Schedule Tests the Bulldogs |
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Gonzaga’s non-conference schedule features several formidable opponents. A highlight of their early-season matchups is a highly anticipated clash with reigning national champion Kansas. This demanding slate will provide the Bulldogs with valuable experience and prepare them for the rigors of conference play. |
WCC Competition Remains Strong |
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Within the West Coast Conference (WCC), Gonzaga will face stiff competition from rivals such as Saint Mary’s and BYU. These teams have proven to be formidable opponents in recent years and will challenge the Bulldogs for the conference crown. |
Elite Eight or Bust |
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Gonzaga’s ultimate goal is to reach the Elite Eight of the NCAA Tournament. After falling short in the Sweet 16 last season, the Bulldogs are determined to make a deeper run this year. They possess the talent, experience, and determination to make it happen. |
Eye on History |
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With a program-record 11 consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances, Gonzaga has established itself as a perennial powerhouse. They aim to continue their remarkable run of success this season, potentially reaching their first Final Four since 2017. The Bulldogs have their sights set on making history and leaving a lasting legacy in the annals of college basketball. |
Analysis of Opponents’ Strengths and Weaknesses
Non-Conference Opponents
Gonzaga’s non-conference schedule features a mix of opponents from various conferences. Key strengths and weaknesses of these teams include:
November 2024
| Date | Opponent | Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nov. 8th | Tarleton State | Explosiveness, athleticism | Size, free throw shooting |
| Nov. 12th | Texas | Size, physicality | Consistency, perimeter shooting |
| Nov. 22nd | Mississippi State | Star power, rebounding | Shooting efficiency, turnovers |
| Nov. 26th | Saint Mary’s | Discipline, perimeter defense | Size, athleticism |
December 2024
| Date | Opponent | Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dec. 3rd | San Diego | Athleticism, up-tempo style | Size, physicality |
| Dec. 10th | Lipscomb | Shooting, rebounding | Defense, physicality |
| Dec. 14th | Texas Tech | Defense, physicality | Offensive efficiency, ball handling |
| Dec. 20th | UNLV | Depth, athleticism | Shooting consistency, post defense |
| Dec. 22nd | Montana | Length, defensive pressure | Offensive production, free throw shooting |
Impact of New Transfers on Roster Depth
Gonzaga’s roster took a major hit when several key players declared for the NBA Draft, but the program responded by bringing in a highly regarded transfer class. The arrival of these new faces will have a significant impact on Gonzaga’s depth and versatility in the 2024-25 season.
Depth in the Frontcourt
Gonzaga added two talented big men in transfers Efton Reid (LSU) and Aidan Mahaney (Providence). Reid is a 6’11” center who averaged 10.4 points and 7.4 rebounds per game last season, while Mahaney is a 6’10” forward who averaged 10.3 points and 7.1 rebounds per game. Their size and athleticism will give Gonzaga a much-needed boost in the frontcourt, where they will provide support for returning starters Drew Timme and Anton Watson.
Experience in the Backcourt
The Bulldogs also added some much-needed experience in the backcourt with the transfer of guard Rasir Bolton (Iowa State). Bolton is a four-year starter who averaged 15.1 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game last season. His ability to create his own shot and set up teammates will be a valuable asset for Gonzaga.
Three-Point Shooting Prowess
Perhaps the most significant impact of the new transfers on Gonzaga’s roster will be their three-point shooting prowess. Reid, Mahaney, and Bolton are all capable shooters from beyond the arc. Their presence will give Gonzaga multiple options to spread the floor and create space for their playmakers. In the 2023-24 season, Gonzaga ranked 19th in the nation in three-point percentage (37.7%). With the addition of these new transfers, it is reasonable to expect Gonzaga to be one of the most dangerous three-point shooting teams in college basketball in 2024-25.
Transfer Impact Summary
| Player | Position | Previous School |
|---|---|---|
| Efton Reid | Center | LSU |
| Aidan Mahaney | Forward | Providence |
| Rasir Bolton | Guard | Iowa State |
Bulldogs Primed for Postseason Success
Preseason Schedule
The Bulldogs will open their 2024-25 campaign with an exhibition game against Division II opponent Northwest Nazarene on November 2, 2024. They will then host Gonzaga alumni team on November 8, 2024, before their regular season opener against Portland on November 12, 2024.
Non-Conference Schedule
Gonzaga’s non-conference schedule is highlighted by matchups against several top-25 teams, including Kansas, Villanova, and Baylor. They will also participate in the Battle 4 Atlantis tournament in the Bahamas from November 25-27, 2024.
Conference Schedule
The Bulldogs will face a challenging West Coast Conference (WCC) schedule, including two games each against Saint Mary’s, BYU, and San Diego. They will also play at BYU’s Marriott Center on February 15, 2025, which is expected to be a sellout crowd.
Postseason Hopes
With a talented roster and a strong schedule, Gonzaga is poised for another successful postseason run. They will look to return to the NCAA Tournament and make a deep run in March.
Key Returners
The Bulldogs will return several key players from last season’s team, including Drew Timme, Julian Strawther, and Hunter Sallis. These players provide Gonzaga with a strong core of experience and talent.
Incoming Recruits
Gonzaga has added several talented recruits to their roster for the 2024-25 season. These recruits include five-star prospects Wesley Yates III and Aidan Hugley, who are expected to make an immediate impact.
Coaching Staff
Mark Few will enter his 25th season as head coach of the Bulldogs. He has led Gonzaga to 23 NCAA Tournament appearances, including nine Sweet 16s and four Elite Eights.
Projected Starting Lineup
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Point Guard | Hunter Sallis |
| Shooting Guard | Julian Strawther |
| Small Forward | Drew Timme |
| Power Forward | Wesley Yates III |
| Center | Kaden Perry |
Regular Season Schedule
The Bulldogs’ regular season schedule is as follows:
- November 2, 2024: Exhibition vs. Northwest Nazarene
- November 8, 2024: Exhibition vs. Gonzaga Alumni
- November 12, 2024: Regular Season Opener vs. Portland
- November 25-27, 2024: Battle 4 Atlantis
- December 3, 2024: vs. Kansas
- December 10, 2024: vs. Villanova
- December 17, 2024: at Baylor
- January 7, 2025: vs. Saint Mary’s
- January 14, 2025: at San Diego
- January 21, 2025: vs. BYU
- February 4, 2025: at Saint Mary’s
- February 11, 2025: vs. San Diego
- February 15, 2025: at BYU
- February 25, 2025: vs. Portland
- March 2-5, 2025: WCC Tournament
- March 13-16, 2025: NCAA Tournament
Gonzaga Basketball Schedule 2024-2025
The Gonzaga Bulldogs basketball team will play a challenging schedule during the 2024-2025 season. The Bulldogs will open the season with a home game against the Idaho Vandals. They will then play a series of non-conference games, including a matchup with the Duke Blue Devils in the Maui Invitational. Gonzaga will also play games against the UCLA Bruins, the USC Trojans, and the Arizona Wildcats.
The Bulldogs will begin conference play in December with a game against the Saint Mary’s Gaels. They will then play a series of games against the other West Coast Conference teams, including a rematch with the Saint Mary’s Gaels in the regular season finale. Gonzaga will look to win the regular season conference championship and earn a high seed in the NCAA Tournament.
The Bulldogs will be led by a talented group of players, including All-American Drew Timme. Timme averaged 18.4 points and 7.6 rebounds per game last season. He will be joined by a number of other talented players, including Julian Strawther, Nolan Hickman, and Chet Holmgren. The Bulldogs will be one of the favorites to win the NCAA Championship in 2024-2025.
People Also Ask About Gonzaga Basketball Schedule 2024-2025
When is the Gonzaga basketball schedule released?
The Gonzaga basketball schedule is typically released in the spring or summer.
Where can I find the Gonzaga basketball schedule?
The Gonzaga basketball schedule can be found on the Gonzaga Athletics website.
Who are the Gonzaga Bulldogs’ key players?
The Gonzaga Bulldogs’ key players include Drew Timme, Julian Strawther, Nolan Hickman, and Chet Holmgren.
What are the Gonzaga Bulldogs’ chances of winning the NCAA Championship?
The Gonzaga Bulldogs are one of the favorites to win the NCAA Championship in 2024-2025.
