Bio: Karnowski was discovered by assistant coach Tommy Lloyd, who noticed the native of Poland when he was watching Gonzaga recruit Kevin Pangos at the U17 World Championships. Selected GU over Cal. Turned down opportunity to visit Duke. Ranked as the top prospect for European players born in 1993 by Eurohopes.com. Traditional high school basketball wasn't available so he played for Siarka Jezioro in Poland's top league. Averaged 10.1 points, 4.4 rebounds and shot 54 percent from the floor. Has extensive international experience playing for Poland's junior and senior national teams.
Sr. Scouting report: Returned from last season's back surgery to resume role as starting center. Still regaining stamina and strength but has made impressive recovery. Team's most experienced player. Difference-maker at both ends of the court. Force on the low block, soft touch around the basket and an excellent passer. Anchors defense with his presence in the lane. Named to All-WCC preseason team. Missed all but five games last season after undergoing back surgery on Dec. 31. Received medical redshirt season. Averaged 10.9 points and was named All-WCC first team in 2015. Scored 22 points in win over Washington State. Had 18 points and nine boards in Sweet 16 win over UCLA. Became starter in 2014, averaging 10.4 points. Named to WCC All-Freshman team after averaging 5.4 points and 2.6 rebounds in 2013.
Gonzaga forward Zach Collins (32) and Gonzaga center Przemek Karnowski (24) celebrate their 93-53 win over Loyola Marymount during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game, Thurs., Jan. 12, 2017, in the McCarthey Athletic Center. COLIN MULVANY colinm@spokesman.com (Colin Mulvany / The Spokesman-Review)
