In a thrilling college basketball showdown at the Moda Center in Portland, Oregon, the No. 7 ranked Gonzaga Bulldogs triumphed over the Oregon Ducks, 91-82. The game was packed with standout moments, especially from Braeden Smith and Braden Huff, who teamed up for 41 points.
This win bumps Gonzaga’s season record up to an impressive 12-1. Oregon, meanwhile, slides to an even 6-6. The first half was a real tug-of-war, both squads trading leads, but Gonzaga pulled away after the break to seal it.
Key Players and Performances
Gonzaga had a handful of players really step up. Braeden Smith led the way, dropping 21 points and showing a ton of poise running the offense. Braden Huff was right there with him, adding 20 points and making plays all over.
Graham Ike’s Double-Double
Graham Ike was a force inside, racking up 17 points and 11 rebounds for a double-double. His work in the paint, especially after halftime, helped Gonzaga control the pace and the boards.
Supporting Cast Contributions
It wasn’t just the stars, though. Steele Venters chipped in 14 points. Tyon Grant-Foster added 10, including a wild buzzer-beating three at the end of the first half that put Gonzaga up 42-39 heading into the locker room.
Oregon’s Strong Effort
Oregon didn’t go quietly. Nate Bittle was outstanding, pouring in a game-high 28 points and nearly reaching double-digit rebounds. He kept Oregon in it, especially early on, with some tough buckets.
Contributions from Kwame Evans Jr. and Takai Simpkins
Kwame Evans Jr. tossed in 14 points. Takai Simpkins had 13, both helping Oregon keep pace and push back whenever Gonzaga threatened to break it open.
Jackson Shelstad’s Performance
Jackson Shelstad quietly put up 12 points. He added a bit of spark for the Ducks and made Gonzaga’s defense work.
Game Analysis
The first half was a bit of a rollercoaster. Both teams flashed some serious offensive firepower, trading buckets and momentum. Bittle was especially hot for Oregon, scoring 16 of his 28 before halftime.
But then, right before the break, Grant-Foster’s three-pointer at the buzzer nudged Gonzaga ahead. That shot felt like a bit of a gut punch for Oregon.
Second Half Surge
After halftime, Gonzaga started to take over. They locked in on defense, got out in transition, and stretched their lead to as much as 15. The Bulldogs looked calm, almost unbothered, as they executed their sets and kept Oregon at arm’s length.
Key Moments
Graham Ike’s double-double was huge, giving Gonzaga extra chances with his rebounding. Smith and Huff kept pouring in points, making sure Oregon never got too close again.
Looking Ahead
With this win, Gonzaga keeps rolling, now 12-1 on the year. They’ll take on Pepperdine next, on December 28. Oregon, sitting at 6-6, will try to regroup when they host Omaha that same night.
The matchup between Gonzaga and Oregon? Honestly, it was college basketball at its most entertaining. Both teams came out swinging, showing off real talent and keeping everyone on the edge of their seats.
Gonzaga managed to pull away in the second half. That says a lot about their grit and skill, doesn’t it?
If you’re hungry for more details or want a full breakdown, check out the original article on Fox Sports right here: link.
- Schools Covered
- College Football Articles
- Men's College Basketball Articles
- Men's College Soccer Articles
- Women's College Basketball Articles
- Olympic Athlete Articles
- Men's College Baseball Articles
- College Sports Media Professionals Articles
- Hall of Fame Member Articles
- Former College Player Articles
- Game Previews
