Gonzaga Wins Final WCC Tournament, Secures NCAA Tournament Bid

LAS VEGAS – No. 12 Gonzaga defeated Santa Clara 79-68 on Tuesday night to win the West Coast Conference (WCC) Tournament championship, marking its 29th consecutive appearance in the title game and securing an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament.^{1, 2} This victory as well represents the Bulldogs’ ninth 30-win season, their first since 2023.^{1, 2}

Dominating Performance on Both Ends

The Bulldogs (30-3) overcame a slow start to outscore Santa Clara 27-0 on fastbreak points, a key factor in their victory.^{1, 2} Gonzaga shot 53% from the field and 40% from three-point range, with 24 assists on 28 baskets.² Despite struggling at the free-throw line (13-for-23), their offensive efficiency proved too much for the Broncos.²

Saint-Supéry and Grant-Foster Lead the Way

Mario Saint-Supéry led Gonzaga with 21 points, including six three-pointers, although Tyon Grant-Foster added 20 points.^{1, 3} Graham Ike, the WCC Player of the Year, contributed 15 points on a perfect 7-for-7 shooting performance, earning the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player award.^{1, 2} Ike faced a double-team strategy early in the game but remained patient, impacting the game through rebounding and defense.¹

Santa Clara’s Strong Season Continues

Santa Clara (26-8) fought valiantly, hoping to win their first WCC tournament crown since 1993 and their first NCAA Tournament berth since 1996.^{1, 3} Despite the loss, head coach Mark Few and others anticipate the Broncos receiving an at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament.^{1, 3} Allen Graves led Santa Clara with 24 points, while Sash Gavalyugov added 9 assists.²

Looking Ahead to March Madness

Gonzaga’s victory secures their 27th consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance.¹ Saint Mary’s (27-5), which shared the regular-season title with Gonzaga, is also expected to receive a bid, potentially making it a three-bid year for the WCC.¹ Coach Few believes Santa Clara is a team capable of winning games in the NCAA Tournament, citing their size, guard play, defense, and shooting ability.¹

All-Tournament Team

• Graham Ike (Gonzaga) – Most Outstanding Player
• Tyon Grant-Foster (Gonzaga)
• Mario Saint-Supery (Gonzaga)
• Allen Graves (Santa Clara)
• Sash Gavalyugov (Santa Clara)

¹ Gonzaga University Athletics

² ESPN

³ AP News