"We really played some teams that pride themselves physically": Mark Few embraces Gonzaga matching physical powerhouses like UConn and UCLA

Mark Few praised his Gonzaga Bulldogs for their resilience and effort after a hard-fought battle against UCLA on Saturday.

The non-conference clash between the two West Coast powerhouses lived up to the hype at the Intuit Dome. But unlike their previous four meetings, it was the Bruins who emerged victorious.

The No. 22-ranked UCLA stifled No. 18-ranked Gonzaga early and ultimately secured a 65-62 win in a thrilling finish.

Despite the loss, Few emphasized the lessons his team has learned from their challenging non-conference slate.

“We really played some teams that pride themselves physically,” Few said, as per SI. “You look at UConn, West Virginia and UCLA, and we’ve matched that physicality.

"In the past, we’ve been overmatched in certain areas, but this year, we’re holding our own. Now, it’s about stepping up and making a play here or there when it matters most.”

Reflecting on the narrow loss, Few acknowledged the game’s intensity and the high level of competition.

“We’re playing a great schedule and great teams,” Few said. “When you’re in a position to win, you just hope to make a play, hit a shot, and get a stop at the end.

"That’s basketball. We had great execution and got some good looks, but sometimes, the shots don’t fall.”

Few highlighted the growth the Bulldogs have shown compared to previous seasons. Last year, Gonzaga struggled against physically dominant opponents like UConn or teams with towering players like Zach Edey. This season, the Bulldogs have proven they can go toe-to-toe with such teams.

“That’s a great sign for us heading into league play,” Few said. “It’s all about believing the next shot is going in and seizing the moment.”

As Gonzaga heads into league play, Few remains optimistic about his team’s potential. The non-conference schedule, though grueling, has prepared the Bulldogs for the challenges ahead.

With their ability to match physical teams and the belief that their next big shot will fall, Gonzaga looks ready to compete at the highest level.

Mark Few’s Hall of Fame nomination sparks reaction at Gonzaga

Mark Few’s nomination for the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame has put the longtime Gonzaga coach in rare company.

Few, who has led the Bulldogs for 26 years, is being celebrated for his remarkable achievements in college basketball, including multiple Naismith Coach of the Year awards. He also has 14 West Coast Conference (WCC) Coach of the Year honors, and a career-winning percentage of 83.2%, the highest among active coaches.

Current Gonzaga athletic director Chris Standiford shared his thoughts, calling Few’s contributions to basketball and Gonzaga “profound.”

“He’s already in the Hall of Fame in my mind,” Standiford said, as per The Spokesman-Review. “His accomplishments speak for themselves; it’s just a matter of time before they’re officially recognized.”

Few’s nomination comes as Gonzaga is ranked 14th nationally and on pace to make its 27th consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance. The team has reached nine straight Sweet 16s, the longest active streak in the country.

Few’s success, however, is not just about the numbers. His leadership and vision have transformed Gonzaga into a powerhouse program, a feat that seemed unimaginable 25 years ago.

Few, humbled by the nomination, credits the people around him for his success.

“This honor is something I never thought was possible,” Few said. “It’s a testament to the incredible players, hardworking coaches, and supportive administration I’ve had the privilege to work with."

"Most importantly, I thank my family for their unwavering support over the years. This is something we’ve accomplished together.”

Few’s career record of 726-146, along with his dominance in the WCC and consistent success in the NCAA Tournament, places him among the greats of college basketball.

Few now joins a star-studded group of Hall of Fame nominees that includes Carmelo Anthony, Sue Bird, Dwight Howard, Doc Rivers, Maya Moore and Florida’s Billy Donovan.

Finalists will be announced on Feb. 14 during NBA All-Star Weekend, with the Class of 2025 revealed at the NCAA Final Four in April.