San Diego State Picks Up Key Win Against No. 12 Gonzaga

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

The San Diego State Aztecs (2-0) are conceived to possibly be this years Butler Bulldogs of last year. The Aztecs can possibly be the mid-major power to beat, and has great players to commend that notion.

San Diego State had their first test of the season on the road against the No. 12 Gonzaga Bulldogs (2-1).

After the Aztecs made a statement by taking a 42-37 lead at the half, San Diego State continued their dominance all the way until the final buzzer sounded.

The Aztecs held off Gonzaga after watching a desperation attempt fall well short at the buzzer by Steven Gray.

Billy White scored a career-high 30 points, to go along with nine rebounds, and two steals.

Three other players were in double-figures as the Aztecs picked up one of the most notable wins in school history. Kawhi Leonard had 18, James Rahon 12, and Brian Carwell with 10.

The Aztecs out-rebounded Gonzaga 33-26, 18 coming on the offensive end.

However, Gonzaga's Gray lead all scorers with 35 points, while adding five assist, three rebounds, and two assist. Robert Sacre also finished in double-figures for Gonzaga with 13 points, and 11 rebounds.

Impressively, San Diego State did a great job on Elias Harris. Harris finished the game with five points, and three rebounds, while shooting 1-of-4 from the field. The Aztecs made Harris a non-threat on offense, and ultimately is one of the reasons why San Diego State stayed ahead most of the game.

Nonetheless, the Aztecs pick up their first marquee win in school history, as well as the season. San Diego State will be in action next against Green Bay Phoenix at home. Gonzaga will travel to Kansas City to face-off against the No. 3 ranked Kansas State Wildcats.

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Despite The Loss Of Matt Bouldin, The Zags' Are Still The 'Mid-Major' to Beat

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

When you saw Matt Bouldin play, more than stats met the eye. Yes, he did average 15.6 points, 4.7 rebounds and four assist per game. Then you could throw in the occasional two steals as well.

But his leadership on the court is what kept the Zags' competitive in most of their games.

Bouldin's leadership and play kept the Zags' successful. Now how are they going to find that same intensity next year?

Well, the Zags' are still equipped with Elias Harris. The 6-foot-7 wingman is still on the team after bypassing the NBA draft.

Over the season, he showcased the ability to be a dominant wing player and post presence. He had five double-double games, highlighted by his 31-and-13 performance in a (89-82) win against Saint Mary's.

Steven Gray is almost like a clone of Bouldin. He is the main reason why I think they'll stay competitive next season. 

Gray is a 6-foot-5 guard with the ability to share, score and rebound the basketball.

He seems so similar to Bouldin because last season he averaged 13.6 points, four rebounds and 2.9 assist. Those are numbers he achieved playing beside Bouldin. Now just imagine what his numbers are going to be next year.

With the tandem of Gray and Harris I think the Zags' are still the Mid-Major to beat. As long as Gray steps up and fills the shoes of Bouldin the Zags' are in prime position to continue the success.