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The Gonzaga Bulldogs have one of the best starting frontcourts in college basketball, but it’s a forward projected to come off the bench that could be the biggest x-factor for Mark Few’s team in 2026-27.
Izan Almansa, who committed to Gonzaga back in May but is still awaiting clearance from the NCAA, was a major standout during the Blue vs. White scrimmage at Kraziness in the Kennel on Saturday.
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In 14 minutes, the 6’10 Spanish big man scored seven points, grabbed seven rebounds, had one assist, and drew three fouls for Team Blue. He shot 2-5 from the field and 3-4 from the free throw line, and his four offensive boards were the most of anyone who played in the scrimmage.
What Mark Few sees in Izan Almansa
Gonzaga forward Izan Almansa (13) shoots a free throw during 2026 Kraziness in the Kennel | Photo by Myk Crawford
After the scrimmage, coach Few was quick to praise Almansa not only for his work on Saturday but his ability to learn his role for Gonzaga, while comparing him to one of the team’s all-time international greats.
“He does a great job,” Few said. “He’s got an incredible feel for the game, kind of like [Killian] Tillie had. The ball just kind of falls to him, but we definitely need him on the glass. Need him to be a little bit more physical, a little more assertive. But he’s somebody who does everything really, really well. Doesn’t have a weakness.”
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Almansa was impressive on both ends of the floor Saturday, playing good defense on Braden Huff and Parker Jefferson, constantly getting in good rebounding position, and using his strength to draw contact and get to the free throw line.
Where Almansa fits in Gonzaga’s frontcourt
Gonzaga forward Izan Almansa (13) warms up before Kraziness in the Kennel on Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026 | Photo by Myk Crawford
Almansa has long been projected as Gonzaga’s third big, capable of playing behind or alongside Braden Huff and Massamba Diop. The 6’10 forward has extensive experience, first in the G League with the…
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Publish date : 2026-10-06 00:45:00
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