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Gonzaga Basketball

Gonzaga’s Zach Norvell Jr.’s diet takes bite out of ‘Snacks’ intake

Gonzaga guard Zach Norvell Jr. goes through practice drills Wednesday at the Staples Center. (Dan Pelle / The Spokesman-Review)

LOS ANGELES – A sizable media contingent surrounded Zach Norvell Jr.’s cubicle Wednesday and learned a few interesting tidbits about the redshirt freshman guard.

Norvell, one of the NCAA Tournament’s breakout stars thus far, has recounted the story behind his nickname “Snacks” dozens of times in the last week – he devoured candy and junk food as a youngster – but the moniker might be a bit outdated.

Norvell changed his diet as a high school sophomore when he felt like he was getting “a little bit fleshy, and also coming in last year coach (Mark) Few used to joke around saying I was a little heavy.

“Early this year, I was a pescetarian so I was only eating seafood and staying away from all the pop and juice,” he said. “It’s helped me out.”

He hasn’t totally cut out the sweets.

“I gotta have chocolate chip cookies,” Norvell said.

Thursday’s Gonzaga-Florida State game has added meaning for Norvell. The Seminoles were one of Norvell’s three finalists.

“Really good facilities, the coaching staff was amazing, the culture was great,” Norvell said of his visit to Tallahassee. “Ultimately I love Gonzaga, the family vibe and the history of winning. I couldn’t go wrong with either.

“I think after I left my visit at Gonzaga, I knew that’s where I wanted to be.”