How Isiah Harwell compares to recent Gonzaga transfer guards

From Jordan Mathews to Nigel Williams-Goss, Andrew Nembhard to Jalen Warley, the level of talent Gonzaga has acquired and developed through the transfer market to backfill its perimeter positions has helped the Bulldogs remain relevant on a national scale over the past decade or so.

Isaiah Harwell, a former highly-touted recruit who recently announced he’s transferring to play for the Zags following one season at Houston, has put himself in a position to add his name to the list of point guards and wings who started their college careers elsewhere before blossoming into big-time contributors for Mark Few’s program.

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But what exactly does the 6-foot-6 Idaho native bring to the table, and how does it fit what Few and company look for from the combo guard position? Let’s examine Harwell’s talent and skillset, and how it compares to previous Gonzaga transfers.

How Harwell’s skillset compares to former Gonzaga transfer guards

For clarity’s sake, let’s start by defining Harwell’s true position. While the Zags have had success with taller guards running point, like Williams-Goss or Nembhard, Harwell’s skillset more closely resembles that of an off-ball guard whose scoring touch is more valuable than his playmaking abilities.

Since his days at Wasatch Academy (Utah), one of Harwell’s biggest strengths has been his jump shot. He can knock down midrange jumpers off the dribble and has developed a nice touch from outside the 3-point line as well, especially off the catch. His ability to get to the rim in half-court sets leaves room for growth, though he’s someone who likes to play fast and get to the rim in transition.

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Harwell’s size and athleticism bodes well for him on the defensive end of the floor, too.

Admittedly, it was hard to see the best of Harwell’s game during his one-year stint with the Cougars. To be fair, though, he was coming off an ACL injury he suffered during his senior year of high school. According to Houston head coach Kelvin Sampson, that…

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Publish date : 2026-04-14 22:00:00

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