Gonzaga’s 2026-27 Preview: First Looks at Massamba Diop, Isiah Harwell and a Retooled Roster Ahead of Pac-12 Play

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights
2. Introduction
3. Harwell’s arrival: defense-first wing with upside on offense
4. Diop’s time: a 7'1 rim protector who can stretch the defense
5. Freshmen and walk-ons: long-term projects with immediate floor value
6. Izan Almansa: a big signing clouded by eligibility questions
7. Frontcourt architecture: pairing Diop and Huff for defensive and offensive leverage
8. Backcourt and perimeter dynamics: balancing playmaking, shooting, and defense
9. Coaching and system fit: how Gonzaga intends to integrate diverse skill sets
10. Roster construction and the remaining three spots: strategic flexibility
11. Pac-12 context: what Gonzaga’s reshaped roster means for conference competition
12. Player development pathways: how freshmen and transfers can maximize contributions
13. Chemistry, culture and the intangible elements
14. Schedule, testing and early-season benchmarks
15. Potential pitfalls and risk management
16. What fans should watch during preseason and early games
17. Broader program implications: recruiting, identity and trajectory
18. Short-term projection and realistic expectations
19. Closing perspective
20. FAQ

Key Highlights

• Gonzaga released early practice footage highlighting two high-impact transfers — 7'1" shot-blocker Massamba Diop (Arizona State) and versatile 6'6" wing Isiah Harwell (Houston) — plus four incoming freshmen, reshaping the Zags’ frontcourt and perimeter depth.
• Diop’s rim protection and developing outside shot pair naturally with returning senior Braden Huff; Harwell projects to start in the backcourt and could become a two-way difference-maker if his offense progresses.
• The program still has three open roster spots and a pending eligibility decision for Real Madrid center Izan Almansa; those variables, plus chemistry among newcomers, will determine how quickly Gonzaga coalesces before a season-opening Nov. 2 matchup with Purdue.

Introduction

Gonzaga's social channels offered a first glimpse of a roster that mixes veteran returners with an infusion of transfer portal talent and incoming freshmen. The short clips and snapshots did more than whet appetites; they revealed how the Bulldogs are attempting to rebuild size, athleticism and perimeter versatility in time for the 2026-27 season. Two transfers — Massamba Diop and Isiah Harwell — headline the early arrivals, and their skill sets address two long-standing needs: an elite interior defender and a multi-positional wing who can defend the perimeter.

This preview examines what the newcomers bring on and off the ball, how they might fit alongside returning pieces like Braden Huff, the implications for Gonzaga’s Pac-12 debut, and the roster decisions still left to make. The footage is only the beginning. What follows unpacks concrete roles, matchup advantages, developmental pathways for the freshmen, and the roster permutations that will determine whether the Bulldogs are ready to contend at the top of the conference and nationally.

Harwell’s arrival: defense-first wing with upside on offense

The clip Gonzaga posted of Isiah Harwell presents a compact, athletic wing who projects to impact the game immediately on defense. Harwell, a former McDonald’s All-American, measured 6'6 with a 6'9 wingspan in the material Gonzaga released — physical traits that translate to on-ball pressure, help-side rotations and switchable coverage across multiple perimeter positions.

Harwell’s college path took him to Houston out of high school, where he played in a program known for producing NBA-ready defenders and strong wing athletes. He briefly explored the NBA draft process before committing to Gonzaga on April 12 and signing his paperwork in late May. That experience with pro evaluations suggests he arrives in Spokane with clarity on what aspects of his game need refining to make an impact at the next level: more consistent perimeter shotmaking, refined shot selection, and more experience as a primary ball-handler in halfcourt sets.

Defensively, Harwell should slot in as a primary perimeter disruptor. Gonzaga’s staff expects him to start alongside returning backcourt pieces Mario Saint-Supery and Davis Fogle. That front-line trio offers an intriguing mix: Saint-Supery’s playmaking and shooting, Fogle’s scoring instincts, and Harwell’s physicality and length. Harwell’s wingspan allows him to contest shots, jump passing lanes, and handle switch-heavy defensive assignments without gifting opponents easy post-ups.

Offensively, the immediate ceiling is complementary. Harwell can graduate into a more significant role if his shot becomes consistent and if he develops the ability to create secondary scoring through drives and kick-outs. Given his previous recruitment profile and time in a Houston system that emphasized toughness and role execution, his climb could be straightforward: start as a defensive anchor on the perimeter, gain reps as a cutter and transition finisher, then expand into pick-and-roll ball-handling and spot-up shooting as the season progresses.

Real examples of wings who followed similar trajectories include players who arrived in college as defensive disruptors and, after targeted offseason work on shooting and shot creation, became two-way starters. At Gonzaga, a program known for smoothing development curves, Harwell will have the resources and a clear pathway to maximize his two-way potential.

Diop’s time: a 7'1 rim protector who can stretch the defense

Massamba Diop represents a dramatic shift back toward a classic Gonzaga interior presence: a seven-footer who defends the rim, bangs on the glass, and can punish opponents at the rim. At Arizona State he averaged 13.6 points, 5.8 rebounds and 2.1 blocks — numbers that signal both productivity and a high ceiling for impact in a new system.

Diop’s ability to protect the rim should produce immediate defensive upgrades. Gonzaga has not consistently had a dominant shot-blocking force since Chet Holmgren patrolled the paint during his 2021-22 season. Diop is described in the footage as a hulking presence who moves with surprising agility for his size. Coaches who have success with similar centers deploy them as primary rim protectors who can deter drives, control second-chance points and anchor defensive rotations.

On offense, Diop offers more than just interior scoring. He has a developing outside touch, enough to step out and pull opposing bigs away from the paint. That makes him a natural pick-and-pop threat in modern spacing-oriented offenses: if he can consistently hit three-point shots off the catch or the roll, defenders face a dilemma — stay home on shooters or recover to the paint, which creates driving lanes and open looks for perimeter players. Pairing Diop with a versatile power forward like Braden Huff — who returns for his final season — could form a complementary frontcourt. Huff’s mobility and mid-range touch, combined with Diop’s interior presence and occasional shooting, give Gonzaga matchup advantages in both halfcourt sets and transition.

The numbers Diop posted at Arizona State underline his established ability to block shots and finish near the rim. But the leap from the Sun Devils’ system to Gonzaga’s more motion-oriented offense will require adaptation. The staff will ask him to understand off-ball movement, pick-and-roll timing, and how to read defensive rotations for offensive rebounding opportunities. Given Diop’s size and shot-blocking instincts, his ceiling is that of a modern two-way big who can anchor a defense and provide efficient scoring inside.

Freshmen and walk-ons: long-term projects with immediate floor value

Gonzaga’s incoming freshmen group—4-star center Sam Funches, 4-star wing Luca Foster, French guard Juwan Ekanga-Ehawa—plus local walk-on Carter Nilson from Gonzaga Prep provide a mix of future upside and role-player value.

• Sam Funches brings additional size and interior depth. At four stars, evaluators see an athletic big with rim-finishing instincts and potential to develop defensively. His presence will matter in matchup situations where Gonzaga wants a more mobile, younger big off the bench to sustain rim protection while Diop rests.
• Luca Foster adds wing size and scoring potential. He projects as a three-level scorer who can slot into multiple perimeter roles depending on matchups. As a freshman wing, his early function will likely involve spot-up shooting, cutting, and defensive rotations while he acclimates to the speed of Division I play.
• Juwan Ekanga-Ehawa, the French guard, adds international flavor and ball-handling versatility. Guards who arrive from European development systems often possess polished fundamentals and off-ball IQ; Ekanga-Ehawa could become a late-game facilitator or a rotation guard who brings steadiness and outside shooting.
• Carter Nilson, a recruited walk-on from Gonzaga Prep, provides local continuity and practice value. Walk-ons frequently carve out roles through hustle, defense and the occasional spark play; their contributions in practice prepare starters and shape game plans.

This freshman class hands Gonzaga three players likely to contribute on different timelines. Funches and Foster may be early rotation pieces if their physicality translates immediately. Ekanga-Ehawa’s timeline depends on how quickly he adapts to the pace and physicality. Walk-ons rarely affect early-season rotation minutes, but they matter in camp, practice and special teams-type rotations.

Gonzaga’s coaching staff historically develops freshmen into reliable college players. The program’s strength lies in individualized player development plans—workouts, film study, skill sessions—that allow freshmen to gain minutes without the expectation of carrying the offense early. Fans should expect a deliberate integration process where freshmen are given defined roles that expand as their shooting, decision-making and defensive discipline improve.

Izan Almansa: a big signing clouded by eligibility questions

Gonzaga secured a commitment from 21-year-old Izan Almansa, a center with experience at Real Madrid. Almansa’s name carries gravitas: he’s played major minutes in European club competition, which translates to high-level experience against grown professionals. His fit on paper is obvious: a skilled, experienced big who understands spacing, post play, and physicality.

Probable complexities stem from NCAA eligibility rules. The association evaluates international players’ amateurism, professional experience, and timelines on a case-by-case basis. Almansa’s status for the upcoming season remains to be determined by the NCAA, and until a ruling is issued his participation is uncertain.

If cleared, Almansa adds immediate veteran presence and could compete with Diop for frontcourt minutes or serve as a high-IQ reserve who understands European ball-screen reads and positionless elements. If denied, Gonzaga will lean more heavily on Diop, Huff and the incoming freshmen to carry the interior workload.

The uncertainty over Almansa’s availability shapes roster planning. Gonzaga’s staff must balance roster spots between preparing for his inclusion and preserving flexibility to bring in alternatives via the transfer market should he be ineligible.

Frontcourt architecture: pairing Diop and Huff for defensive and offensive leverage

The interplay between Braden Huff and Massamba Diop will be central to Gonzaga’s interior strategy. Huff returns for his final collegiate season after missing the second half of last season with a knee injury. His mobility, shooting range and experience as a floor-stretching big make him an ideal partner for Diop.

Possible frontcourt alignments:

• Starting pairing: Huff at the four, Diop at the five. Huff spaces the floor while mixing drives, mid-range actions and screens; Diop anchors the paint, protects the rim and runs the floor for finishes. Against teams that employ smaller lineups, Gonzaga could push Huff to the five occasionally and use Diop as a focal point for offensive rolls.
• Big rotation: Diop starts and logs heavy minutes in early halves, Huff closes as a matchup-neutral four who can space the floor. Sam Funches serves as the primary backup when Gonzaga needs more athleticism without sacrificing rim protection.
• Small-ball adjustments: If Gonzaga opts for more wing versatility, they can play a small five with Huff at center and Harwell or Foster as stretch wings. That lineup depends on opponents and foul situations.

Defensively, Diop’s presence should reduce opponents’ paint touches and force more perimeter-oriented offenses. Teams that rely on interior scoring will need game plans to avoid Diop’s shot-blocking ability. Offensively, Diop’s ability to step out and shoot presents an opportunity to run pick-and-pop sets that pull opposing centers away from the rim, opening driving lanes for guards and cutters.

Matchups to monitor: Teams in the Pac-12 that play with athletic bigs and high pick-and-roll volume will test Diop’s defensive range and Huff’s mobility. Gonzaga’s staff will need to manage foul trouble and minutes carefully, especially against glass-heavy teams that seek to exploit second-chance points.

Backcourt and perimeter dynamics: balancing playmaking, shooting, and defense

Gonzaga’s projected backcourt features Mario Saint-Supery, Davis Fogle and the newly arrived Isiah Harwell. Each brings distinct skill sets that create spacing and defensive advantages when combined intelligently.

• Mario Saint-Supery functions as a primary ball-handler with scoring and playmaking ability. His shot-creation sets up rhythm for others. If he and Harwell can develop consistent pick-and-roll chemistry, Gonzaga will have multiple interior scoring avenues and kick-out options to stretch defenses.
• Davis Fogle provides secondary scoring and off-ball cutting. He can relieve pressure when defenses focus on the primary creators and offers an alternative as a catch-and-shoot option or end-of-clock scorer.
• With Harwell’s defensive length added, the backcourt can switch aggressively and defend multiple positions. This allows Gonzaga to use more versatile coverages and hedging strategies in pick-and-roll situations.

Offensive schematics likely to play to Gonzaga’s strengths:

• Spread pick-and-rolls that use Diop as a roll threat and Huff as a pop threat. This sequence forces defenses into difficult decisions: commit to the roll and surrender the perimeter, or stay home on shooters and concede post finishes.
• Off-ball screening and cutting to free up slashing lanes for wings like Harwell. Harwell’s ability to cut and finish in transition increases spacing in halfcourt sets.
• High-low actions when Almansa (if eligible) or Diop is on the floor. Both bigs have passing enough to exploit over-rotations, creating open midrange or three-point opportunities.

Perimeter defense will be essential. Gonzaga has consistently depended on strong communication and rotation discipline, and the addition of Harwell enhances its capacity to defend ball-screens and cover off-ball cutters. The coaching staff’s challenge will be to meld Harwell’s individual defensive intensity with the team’s collective principles.

Coaching and system fit: how Gonzaga intends to integrate diverse skill sets

Gonzaga’s coaching culture emphasizes fundamentals, spacing, and player development. Newcomers typically undergo a regimented integration process that balances immediate tactical expectations with long-term growth plans. That approach benefits transfer players like Diop and Harwell and incoming freshmen.

Integration priorities for the staff:

• Define roles early. Each newcomer needs a clear list of game tasks — defensive matchups, offensive spots, set responsibilities — to accelerate decision-making on the court.
• Prescribe shot profiles. Coaches will measure each player’s most efficient shot areas and design actions to increase those opportunities. For instance, if Diop is most efficient on roll finishes and short-range jumpers, Gonzaga will run sets to free him on the roll.
• Emphasize defensive cohesion. Even elite individual defenders require time to learn team rotations. Harwell will be encouraged to channel his physical gifts into disciplined help-side rotations and communication.
• Manage minutes and workload. With players new to the system and others returning from injury (Huff), the coaching staff must balance minutes to prevent early-season fatigue and maximize late-season availability.

Track records show Gonzaga usually excels at smoothing learning curves. Players often see their counting stats improve as they settle into consistent rotations. The coaching staff will have credible plans for each newcomer’s weekly workload, progression goals, and film-room responsibilities.

Roster construction and the remaining three spots: strategic flexibility

Gonzaga enters the offseason with three open roster spots. That flexibility is valuable in the modern college landscape, where mid-summer portal activity and late reclassifications can yield impactful players. The staff faces a bifurcated decision: pursue immediate contributors via the portal or preserve spots for high-upside freshmen who can be developed.

Considerations that will shape decisions:

• Immediate need vs. long-term development. If the staff prioritizes a ready-made floor spacer or an experienced guard to ensure backcourt depth, the portal offers candidates who can step in. If they prefer continuity and upside, targeting young prospects might be preferable.
• Position priorities. Even with Diop and Huff locked into frontcourt roles, depth behind them remains a priority. The staff may seek a mobile backup big or an extra wing to guard the conference’s top scorers.
• Chemistry and culture fit. Gonzaga’s program identity revolves around high basketball IQ, unselfishness and team-first play. Targets will be measured not just on numbers but on how well they align with that identity.
• International eligibility and contingency. If Izan Almansa’s status is resolved ineligibly, that will influence whether the Bulldogs add a big now. The staff will evaluate whether to use one or more roster spots for insurance.

Realistic targets include veteran guards who understand system play, athletic wings who can guard multiple positions and a backup big who offers mobility and rebounding. The staff’s public messaging emphasizes team-first acquisitions, so any portal additions will likely be framed as culture fits with immediate roles defined.

Pac-12 context: what Gonzaga’s reshaped roster means for conference competition

Moving forward into the Pac-12, Gonzaga’s roster turnover aligns with the conference’s competitive profile: athletic wings, skilled bigs, and teams comfortable in spacing-centric offenses. Diop’s rim protection counters conference teams who attack the paint, while Harwell’s perimeter defense addresses wing-heavy offenses.

The Pac-12 will present stylistic challenges: teams that push tempo, deploy length on the perimeter, and emphasize switching defenses. Gonzaga’s strengths — interior deterrence, disciplined offense, and skilled frontcourt playmakers — position the Bulldogs to compete. The program’s success will hinge on:

• Defensive matchups: Diop’s ability to limit paint touches and contest shots without fouling. Conference teams with mobile bigs will test his lateral movement.
• Perimeter shooting: Sustained outside shooting from returning guards and incoming wings. If the Zags maintain efficient spacing, their offense will be difficult to guard.
• Forging identity early: Conference schedules often force teams into dense stretches that test depth. Establishing rotations and buy-in during non-conference play will be critical.

Gonzaga’s season opener against Purdue on Nov. 2 offers an early litmus test. Purdue’s typical style — high-octane offense with interior size and pick-and-roll acumen — will reveal how prepared the Bulldogs are to defend and execute against elite competition. Early non-conference results will shape external perceptions and testing priorities before Pac-12 play begins.

Player development pathways: how freshmen and transfers can maximize contributions

Successful integration will require carefully staged development plans for both transfers and freshmen. The coaching staff will focus on refining individual skill sets within team concepts.

For Harwell:

• Shooting mechanics and consistency. Daily repetitions on catch-and-shoot scenarios and off-the-dribble threes will be prioritized.
• Decision-making in pick-and-rolls. Film sessions emphasizing hitting the roll man, recognizing switching coverages and attacking closeouts.
• Conditioning and load management. Transitioning from limited roles to starter’s minutes requires a measured increase in workload.

For Diop:

• Defensive footwork and timing. Drills that emphasize positioning and verticality to reduce foul trouble while maximizing shot-blocking.
• Pick-and-roll timing. Repetition on setting screens, rolling to the rim, and reading defenders to finish in traffic.
• Perimeter shooting development. Shot volume from mid-range and three-point range to increase pick-and-pop threat capacity.

For freshmen:

• Exposure to game speed. Early-season minutes in low-leverage situations paired with simulation scrimmages to build confidence.
• Role clarity. Defined responsibilities—spot-up shooter, cut-and-finish, weak-side rim protector—help the freshmen contribute while learning.
• Strength and conditioning. A program tailored to handle Division I minutes and reduce injury risk.

Growth will be visible in measurable ways: improved field goal percentages in specific shot zones, decreased turnovers in pressure situations, advanced defensive metrics showing fewer opponent points at the rim, and more consistent minute allocations as trust builds.

Chemistry, culture and the intangible elements

Social media teasers created buzz, but practice chemistry determines how the roster performs under pressure. Intangibles—leadership from returners, communication on defense, and willingness to sacrifice for team success—will be decisive.

Braden Huff’s return offers a veteran voice. If he recovers fully from last season’s knee injury, his experience will steady second- and third-year players. Transfer players often bring fresh competitive energy; integrating that energy to fuel cohesion rather than ego-driven play matters.

Gonzaga’s tradition of discipline, combined with a clear role matrix, typically accelerates team chemistry. Newcomers who accept defined early-season roles in exchange for long-term growth will likely be the biggest contributors by March.

Schedule, testing and early-season benchmarks

The Nov. 2 game against Purdue serves as a marquee opener. Early-season non-conference scheduling will likely include neutral-site tests, mid-major tune-ups, and signature matchups that shape NCAA tournament seeding possibilities.

Benchmarks to evaluate progress before conference play:

• Defensive efficiency against non-conference top-100 offenses. A tangible reduction in opponent paint points indicates Diop’s defensive impact.
• Turnover margin. A positive margin suggests improved ball security and execution from the new backcourt mix.
• Three-point percentage and spacing metrics. A stable wing shooting percentage will show whether opposing defenses must respect the perimeter.
• Bench production. Depth scoring and defensive contributions from freshmen and role players will reveal the team’s sustainability over a long season.

Continuous evaluation during these early months will guide rotation decisions and potential midseason adjustments in response to injuries or unexpected chemistry issues.

Potential pitfalls and risk management

Several risks could derail Gonzaga’s progression:

• Injuries and workload. Huff’s recent knee history and the heavy minutes expected from primary contributors highlight injury as a key risk. The staff must manage minutes and recovery carefully.
• Eligibility decisions. If Almansa is ineligible, frontcourt depth will be tested. Recruiting or portal responses may be necessary to cover that contingency.
• Integration lag. The transfer portal revolution speeds roster churn but can also slow chemistry. If the newcomers take longer to absorb defensive schemes and offensive spacing, early-season losses could mount.
• Perimeter shooting shortfalls. If Harwell and the freshmen struggle from three, defenses will crowd the lane and challenge ball handlers, undermining Diop’s roll effectiveness.

Risk mitigation plans involve conservative minute management, targeted offseason skill work, and the use of open roster spots to add reinforcements if necessary.

What fans should watch during preseason and early games

Fans and analysts should look for specific signs that the roster is coalescing:

• Defensive rotation fluidity. Are switches crisp? Does help arrive without leaving shooters open? Diop’s timing in help rotations will be instructive.
• Harwell’s shot selection and defensive impact. Does he force turnovers? Does his shooting progress beyond catch-and-shoot threes?
• Braden Huff’s mobility and minutes. Is he able to sustain extended stints without loss of effectiveness?
• Freshmen contributions in late-game situations. Playing freshmen in pressure moments signals staff confidence.
• Bench energy. Reliable scoring and defensive toughness from second-unit players indicate true depth.

These indicators will calibrate expectations and hint at how Gonzaga might fare in the Pac-12 and beyond.

Broader program implications: recruiting, identity and trajectory

The arrivals of Diop and Harwell speak to a broader recruiting strategy that blends elite transfers with high-upside freshmen and international talent. That approach reflects how top programs now build rosters: a hybrid of immediate-ticket contributors via the portal and longer-term developmental assets.

Implications include:

• Recruiting pitch. Gonzaga can now offer a path where international players, transfers and domestic recruits see clear development and exposure opportunities, especially when national scheduling tests top programs early.
• Program identity. With Diop’s size and Harwell’s perimeter length, Gonzaga shifts toward a more switchable, two-way identity while preserving its historical offensive polish.
• NIL and retention. High-profile additions and a visible development pipeline help retain talent and attract future prospects who seek a winning culture that prepares players for the professional level.

If the newcomers validate their potential, Gonzaga will showcase a roster-building model that other programs will study: integrate transfers quickly, develop freshmen patiently, and supplement with targeted international talent.

Short-term projection and realistic expectations

Predicting wins and losses in college basketball includes wide variance, but certain pragmatic expectations emerge from the roster as constructed:

• Defense should improve around the rim with Diop present. Opponents that rely on interior high-post offense will be less comfortable in the Kennel.
• Perimeter defense should elevate with Harwell, particularly in switch-heavy sets and late-clock contests.
• Offensive fluidity depends on shooting from wings and guards. If Harwell and the freshmen can deliver consistent shooting, Gonzaga’s pick-and-rolls and spacing will become difficult to contain.
• Depth will be tested; the three open roster spots matter. If the staff converts those into contributors, the Bulldogs will be well-positioned for a strong Pac-12 showing. If not, fatigue and matchup problems could surface during the middle of the conference season.

Approach the season with tempered optimism: the ingredients for a successful campaign exist, but execution and health will determine whether this team challenges for conference supremacy.

Closing perspective

Gonzaga’s first public workouts provide an early snapshot of a team rebuilding with purpose. The combination of Massamba Diop’s interior deterrence and Isiah Harwell’s perimeter length addresses two specific needs. The freshmen round out a class with developmental upside, and the uncertainty around Izan Almansa’s eligibility adds an important variable.

The next four months will clarify whether the Bulldogs have balanced their roster effectively or whether further adjustments will be necessary. Early non-conference play and the Nov. 2 meeting with Purdue will set the tone. For now, Gonzaga’s fan base has reason to be intrigued: the program has acquired the type of pieces that, if integrated properly, can restore both the defensive identity and offensive potency that define consistent contenders.

FAQ

Q: Who are Gonzaga’s notable newcomers for 2026-27? A: The headline transfers are Massamba Diop (Arizona State), a 7'1" shot-blocking center, and Isiah Harwell (Houston), a 6'6" wing known for perimeter defense. The incoming freshman class includes 4-star center Sam Funches, 4-star wing Luca Foster, and French guard Juwan Ekanga-Ehawa. Carter Nilson arrives as a recruited walk-on.

Q: Is Izan Almansa eligible to play for Gonzaga this season? A: Almansa’s eligibility status is pending. The NCAA will determine his participation after reviewing his international playing history and amateurism status. Until the NCAA issues a ruling, his availability is uncertain.

Q: How will Diop and Huff play together? A: The likely starting configuration pairs Diop as a primary rim protector/roll threat with Braden Huff as a mobile, spacing four who can pop and create off-midrange actions. This pairing offers both defensive interior strength and perimeter spacing for guards and wings.

Q: What role will Isiah Harwell fill? A: Harwell projects as a starting perimeter defender and an energetic two-way wing. Offensively, he will start with complementary duties—defense, cuts and transition finishing—and potentially expand his scoring and play-creation roles as his shooting develops.

Q: How many roster spots are still open and what will Gonzaga do with them? A: The program reportedly has three open roster spots. Gonzaga can use those spots to add transfer portal contributors, international talent, or additional freshmen, depending on needs such as backcourt depth or insurance for frontcourt eligibility issues.

Q: When does Gonzaga open the 2026-27 season and what is the first matchup? A: Gonzaga’s season opens Nov. 2 in Las Vegas against Purdue.

Q: What are the biggest risks for this roster? A: Key risks include injuries (notably Braden Huff’s knee history), the potential ineligibility of Izan Almansa, integration delays among new players, and inconsistent perimeter shooting that could limit pick-and-roll effectiveness.

Q: How will the newcomers affect Gonzaga’s performance in the Pac-12? A: If the newcomers integrate smoothly, Gonzaga should gain improved rim protection and switchable perimeter defense, two assets that align with the conference’s athletic profile. Success will depend on health, shooting consistency, and depth contributions.

Q: What should fans watch for in preseason and early games? A: Look for defensive rotation fluidity, Harwell’s shooting and defensive impact, Huff’s mobility and minutes, freshmen contributions in pressure moments, and bench energy and production.

Q: How will Gonzaga’s coaching staff manage player development? A: Expect role clarity, targeted skill development (shooting mechanics, pick-and-roll reads, defensive positioning), and careful minute management to maximize growth and reduce injury risk.