Post by : Maya Rahman

Right from the tip-off, Gonzaga displayed exceptional energy, seizing control and scoring the initial nine points. Their dynamic ball movement, ferocious rebounding, and confident shooting quickly set the tone for the match. As the first half progressed, it became evident that Southern Utah struggled to keep pace with Gonzaga’s intensity and resolve.

Braden Huff emerged as Gonzaga's top performer, netting a career-high 22 points and shooting an impressive 11 of 13 from the field. His poise and precision energized the team, allowing them to maintain a commanding presence throughout the game. Huff also contributed six rebounds, showcasing his well-rounded abilities on both offense and defense.

In addition to Huff's brilliance, Gonzaga saw strong contributions from various players. Davis Fogle chipped in 19 points with sharp shooting, while Mario Saint-Supery added 16 points and made six steals, reflecting his defensive prowess. Graham Ike and Adam Miller also found the score sheet with 13 points each, further propelling the team's dominant showing.

The final score of 122-50 marked a historic 72-point victory margin, the largest ever for Gonzaga against a Division I opponent. This standout performance not only showcased impressive scoring and defense but also highlighted the team's cohesive gameplay. Unfortunately for Southern Utah, this game also marked a record low, as they faced their most significant defeat.

A key factor in Gonzaga’s overwhelming success was their shooting efficiency. The Bulldogs achieved a stunning 68.1% shooting from the field and hit over half of their three-point shots. This level of accuracy kept relentless pressure on Southern Utah, who found it challenging to defend against such sustained offensive strength. Furthermore, Gonzaga's rebounding advantage translated into continuous scoring opportunities.

Southern Utah struggled considerably, finishing with just 29.5% shooting and converting only four of their 25 three-point attempts. The Gonzaga defense proved to be too much, forcing 23 turnovers. Elijah Duval stood out for Southern Utah, scoring 10 points, but his efforts couldn't halt Gonzaga's commanding rhythm.

With a commanding 59-27 lead at halftime, Gonzaga maintained their assertiveness in the second half, consistently expanding their lead. Notably, Mario Saint-Supery hit a three-pointer that extended their advantage to 70 points, while Joaquim ArauzMoore pushed it even further to 75. Gonzaga's unwavering confidence saw them control the game until the final buzzer.

This emphatic win signals that Gonzaga is heading into the season in peak form. Their seamless teamwork, precise shooting, and energetic defense all contributed to this remarkable display, bolstering their confidence for upcoming challenges.

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