Gonzaga likely will be active in transfer portal in shaping 2025-26 roster

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A year ago after a Sweet 16 loss to Purdue, Gonzaga’s starters and rotation players eligible to return gave strong indications they would be back.

And then they kept their word.

Gonzaga experienced a fairly stress-free offseason, rare in the NIL and transfer portal era. Seldom-used Luka Krajnovic, Pavle Stosic and walk-on Colby Brooks transferred out and Khalif Battle, Michael Ajayi, Emmanuel Innocenti, Ismaila Diagne and Braeden Smith arrived – the latter three with the future in mind considering GU’s senior-heavy lineup this season.

Following Saturday’s round-of-32 loss to top-seeded Houston, the Zags’ roster picture for next season isn’t nearly as clear. The Zags lose four seniors – Ryan Nembhard, Nolan Hickman, Ben Gregg and Battle. Sophomore wing Dusty Stromer entered the portal on Monday and junior forward Jun Seok Yeo joined him Tuesday.

The biggest decision, and one that will clarify the Zags’ priorities in the transfer market, will be made by post Graham Ike.

Ike, listed as a redshirt senior, didn’t participate in Gonzaga’s Senior Night ceremony, perhaps cracking the door open to using an extra season of eligibility. The Colorado native has been asked about his future a few times, including after the loss to Houston, and he hasn’t tipped his hand on his plans.

“I’m just still not thinking about that,” Ike said 30 minutes after scoring 27 points against the Cougars. “There’s just so much going on in this moment right now. I just want to be with these guys (teammates).”

Ike could return for a third year at Gonzaga, transfer elsewhere or test the NBA/professional waters.

Ike has spoken highly of his two years as a Zag and close connection with teammates. He’s been productive (16.9 points, 7.3 rebounds) and efficient (60.4% from the field, 38.5% on 3-pointers, 79.5% at the foul line). Those stats, along with his 23-point second half against the nation’s No. 1 scoring defense Saturday night no doubt have been…

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Publish date : 2025-03-27 02:02:00

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