College Basketball Power 10: Villanova Starts 2017 On Top
By Jeremy Karll
3. Gonzaga (14-0)
Gonzaga remained one of three undefeated teams in the nation with wins over Pepperdine and Pacific last week. They’re only a combined 10-19 on the year, but they won by a combined 50 points and still haven’t been tested since early December when they beat Arizona 69-62.
Despite their easy schedule, it’s evident that Gonzaga is one of the most well-rounded teams in the nation. Five players score at least 10 points per game, four grab at least 4.7 rebounds per game and they rank 48th in steals.
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Obviously it all comes down to the Tournament for a team who always has a lot of regular season success, but Gonzaga rivals Villanova for the most complete team in the nation. The difference is that Gonzaga doesn’t have a star like Josh Hart leading them.
Nigel Williams-Goss continues to get better every game and is now averaging 13.8 points, 5.7 rebounds, 4.7 assists and 1.7 steals per game, which he leads the team in all but rebounding where he ranks second, but the Bulldogs don’t know if they can rely on him against great teams.
Against two ranked teams, Goss averages just 14 points, five rebounds, 3.5 assists and 0.5 steals per game.
Gonzaga’s easier schedule could be their downfall this year as a result. Although, this week, Gonzaga travels to San Francisco to take on the Dons, who are 11-4, and Portland.