Texas hopes to continue unlikely run against elite Gonzaga team
The Bulldogs have lost just three games this year and are on a heater coming into the second round.
DAYTON, OHIO - MARCH 17: Tramon Mark #12 of the Texas Longhorns celebrates after making the game winning shot against NC State Wolfpack during the second half in the First Four game of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at UD Arena on March 17, 2026 in Dayton, Ohio. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images) | Getty Images After a dramatic First Four win over the NC State Wolfpack and a convincing Round of 64 win over the BYU Cougars, the Texas Longhorns face their toughest challenge of the postseason — taking on the Gonzaga Bulldogs in what is effectively a home game. The Bulldogs have been a perennial power under Mark Few, claiming yet another West Coast Conference regular season and tournament title on their way to the NCAA Tournament.
Led by its front court, forward Graham Ike sets the pace for Gonzaga, averaging 19. 7 points and 8. 2 rebounds per game, the offense flows through his size and skill down low.
They seemingly took a hit to the lineup when their other star forward, Braden Huff, went down with a knee injury earlier in the season. At the time, he was averaging 17. 8 points and 5.
6 rebounds in his 18 starts. Gonzaga has been a blowout artist this year as well, with the nation’s best average scoring margin of +18. 8 points per game.