Gonzaga’s frontcourt stops Pacific from generating offense with penetration

One of the staples of Pacific’s offense is dribble penetration, particularly by 6-foot-5 wing Ray Bowles and 6-3 guard T.J. Wallace.

The pair did some damage Saturday during Gonzaga’s 82-50 win, combining for 35 points, but it required 34 shots.

The made 13 field goals and many of their misses were the result of meeting Gonzaga’s frontcourt of Przemek Karnowski, Johnathan Williams and Zach Collins at the rim.

“We had unbelievable rim protection,” Gonzaga coach Mark Few said. “Elite-level rim protection, which has made such a difference with our defense all year.”

Karnowski and Collins each blocked one shot. The trio of bigs forced the Tigers to adjust their shots when they drove into the lane.

“That’s our job,” Collins said. “When their whole team is just constantly going at our guards, it’s our job to clean it up.”