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Kevin's avatar

Is Gonzaga a blue blood or is Few a blue blood coach? I’d argue the latter. The idea that Gonzaga is a blue blood in the same vein as Kentucky or Duke or UNC and can always rely on reloading with elite coaches and players isn’t accurate. I don’t think they “need” the pac12 but seems like a more stable future post-Few

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Marta's avatar

Finally this lifestyle rag covers some hard-hitting news! I'm of the opinion that the Zags will thrive whether they stay in the WCC or head to the new PAC-?. They've grown their own brand and developed the infrastructure of a blue blood program to attract draw audiences, attract top talent, and convince other powerhouses to play them. With regards to the latter, conference affiliation mainly boils down to whether the season is front-loaded or tough matchups are better spread out throughout. Obviously the more balanced option would be preferable. But for me culture tips the balance towards staying. Not only is the WCC a better fit for Gonzaga's athletic program in terms of university type and geography. But the WCC clearly wants Gonzaga to be there. Gonzaga can't force all other schools to invest in their programs and make for a more competitive environment. But you see certain trues really trying, using Gonzaga as a benchmark and a selling point to recruits. While those assembling the new Pac-12 would probably love to have Gonzaga to boost its basketball profile, I suspect the league members will see it like a tack-on and a second-class member. The benefits aren't appealing enough to make putting up with that worth it! Big-12 or bust. Go Zags.

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