A tangle in Chicago

The task is completely different, but the mindset needs to be the same. On Gonzaga’s first possession last Saturday, Eric McClellan penetrated the lane and challenged Utah standout center Jakob Poeltl. McClellan’s shot didn’t fall, but Domantas Sabonis hit a put-back. On GU’s next possession, Josh Perkins drove inside and tried a floater that the talented Poeltl soared to block. After the game, beaming assistant coach Brian Michaelson said it was precisely the aggressive approach coaches wanted to see. The staff hopes to see more of the same Friday when 11th-seeded Gonzaga (28-7) takes on No. 10 seed Syracuse (21-13) at the United Center with an Elite Eight berth on the line/ Jim Meehan , SR. More here.