Gonzaga is set to kick off its 2025-26 basketball season on November 3rd, hosting Texas Southern at 6:00 p.m. PT in the McCarthey Athletic Center, located in Spokane. Fans can tune into the game on KHQ in the Spokane/North Idaho area, stream it on ESPN+, and catch radio coverage on 96.1 FM and the Varsity Network app.
As the new season arrives, anticipation among Gonzaga fans is palpable. The Zags return to the court with a roster showcasing remarkable range, personality, and versatility not seen in Spokane for quite some time. Each player brings distinct strengths, making this squad intriguing as they approach a season filled with national expectations and a robust nonconference schedule. This year marks the 26th season for the team under head coach Mark Few, leading into their final year in the West Coast Conference before transitioning to the newly restructured Pac-12 next year.
Among the highlights for tonight’s opener is the awaited return of Steele Venters from consecutive season-ending injuries. New additions, including transfers Tyon Grant-Foster and Adam Miller, aim to enhance the offensive firepower on the perimeter. Meanwhile, Graham Ike and Braden Huff, noted for their past success on the court, form a formidable big man duo after averaging over 28 points per game last season.
On the opposing side, Texas Southern enters the game with a seasoned roster following a successful campaign in the Southwestern Athletic Conference, notably returning three of their top five scorers. Among them is guard Zaire Hayes, an All-SWAC selection known for his shooting prowess. Gonzaga has historically excelled at home openers under Coach Few, looking to maintain that streak while also seeking to answer key questions about team dynamics and individual roles as they prepare for upcoming challenges against teams like Oklahoma and Creighton.
The matchup will serve as a critical opportunity for Gonzaga to assess its new backcourt, particularly between Manny Innocenti and Adam Miller. Both players have shown their potential in prior exhibitions, contributing significantly on both ends of the court while also posing challenges for their competition. The developments in their performances will be closely monitored as the season unfolds.
Another notable narrative centers around freshman Davis Fogle, who has dazzled in the early exhibitions. His notable performance has raised expectations for his role moving forward, putting pressure on other wing players like Grant-Foster and Venters who are also eager to establish their place in the lineup.
However, Gonzaga’s initial shooting performance in their exhibitions leaves room for improvement, with shooters like Venters and Miller needing to find their rhythm as the season progresses. While the team displays a promising array of shooting options, the focus will be on how effectively they can integrate those skills into their overall game plan without relying solely on perimeter shooting.
As the Zags move toward tonight’s opener, the development of players like Parker Jefferson could set the tone for future growth. If given time on the bench, it may indicate a strategic long-term vision for the talented freshman.
With a roster defined by versatility, Gonzaga possesses the ability to customize its approach throughout the season, adapting to different play styles and defensive matchups. This blend of talent may lead to unique gameplay opportunities that could elevate the team’s performance to new heights. The season opener against Texas Southern will provide the first glimpse into the myriad combinations and strategies at Gonzaga’s disposal, making it a highly anticipated event for fans and players alike.