Mark Few has much to anticipate as he enters his 26th season leading the Gonzaga men’s basketball program.
While some top programs are rebuilding their rosters, the Bulldogs welcome back seven of their top eight scorers from a team that recently reached the Sweet 16. Notably, three All-WCC players—Ryan Nembhard, Nolan Hickman, and Graham Ike—opted to return to Spokane instead of entering the NBA Draft. Additionally, there were no last-minute entries from the transfer portal by Ben Gregg, Braden Huff, Dusty Stromer, or Jun Seok Yeo. Steele Venters, who missed the previous season due to an ACL injury, is ready to make his Gonzaga debut after transferring from Eastern Washington.
“Players could have explored the transfer portal for opportunities elsewhere, but they chose to return, trusting the program’s process and their individual growth,” remarked Dan Dickau. “They believe in the vision and the potential success of the team.”
Coach Few bolstered the roster through the transfer portal, adding key players to the rotation. Michael Ajayi, an All-WCC wing from Pepperdine, and Khalif Battle, a scoring guard from Arkansas, are expected to make significant contributions. Emmanuel Innocenti, a defensive specialist from Tarleton State, further enhances the team’s depth and defensive prowess.
Fans will have to wait to see Braeden Smith, the reigning Patriot League Player of the Year from Colgate, in action as he will redshirt next season. Smith is anticipated to take over point guard duties in the future.
Looking ahead to the 2024-25 season, the Bulldogs are poised for another deep NCAA Tournament run.
“With the talent, experience, versatility, and depth of this roster, we can confidently talk about Final Four aspirations,” Dickau affirmed. “This team has the potential to compete at that level, considering the returning players and the new additions.”
Dickau discussed these topics and more on a recent episode of the Gonzaga Nation podcast.
