Gonzaga-Saint Mary’s key matchup: Jordan Ford steers Gaels offense

Jordan Ford, the latest off Saint Mary’s assembly line of quality guards, leads the WCC in scoring at 22.1 points, but that doesn’t tell the entire story. The speedy 6-foot-1 junior is highly efficient with shooting percentages of 50.5 on field goals, 43.8 on 3-pointers and 81 on free throws.

It was all on display as Ford scored 28 points in Thursday’s win over Pacific. Ford will be one of the toughest tests of the season for Gonzaga point guard Josh Perkins and the Zags’ team defense.

“He’s scoring it a little more, he’s a little quicker, a little more athletic, but Frankie (Ferrari) is a pick-and-roll maestro,” said Perkins, who helped limit San Francisco’s point guard to 14 points and three assists in Gonzaga’s 92-62 win Thursday. “Jordan is more of an iso guy, can fill it up on the stat sheet. Two big-time opponents and another opportunity to measure myself against another guard in the WCC.”

Ford carries the bulk of the scoring load for the Gaels. He also plays a team-high 36.5 minutes and ranks second with 71 assists.