Gonzaga's bench is a little more crowded this season with the addition of three more walk-ons -- Connor Griffin, Leo Roese and Dustin Triano -- joining holdovers Rem Bakamus and Brian Bhaskar.

The popular Bakamus, who played 22 minutes last year, summed up the role of the walk-ons.

"They kind of knew what they were getting in to, the first week you realize the sacrifices you have to make," Bakamus said. "We hold each other accountable to keep guys' heads up, bring a lot of energy. We bleed, sweat just like them. We just have to make sure we bring a little extra to the table as far as bringing energy."

More on the walk-ons in my article that will run in Wednesday's S-R.