In front of an energetic crowd of over 7,000 fans, Seattle University Men’s Basketball fell to number nine ranked foes from the east, Gonzaga University, 50-71, Jan. 17 at Climate Pledge Arena. As the starting five was announced leading up to the tip-off, the crowd settled in their seats to witness a rematch between the Redhawks and Bulldogs. This was the second time these teams faced off this season after the first match, Jan. 2, ended with Gonzaga coming out on top in overtime, 72-80.

Seattle U’s Sophomore center, Austin Maurer, won the first jump ball, but Gonzaga’s defense quickly made its presence felt by contesting the tip, eventually losing it to the Redhawks. 10 seconds into the game, Senior forward Junseok Yeo made a three-pointer with an assist from Senior guard Maleek Arington, giving the Redhawks an early lead. Senior guard Brayden Maldonado added a three-pointer, giving Seattle U a 6-2 lead.

However, Gonzaga responded with a 9-0 run, gaining an 11-6 lead and forcing Seattle U into a pattern of missed shots and mistakes. Despite these challenges, the Redhawks managed to maintain their competitiveness thanks to Maldonado’s 12 points and Sophomore guard Houran Dan’s 10 points from off the bench.

“Offensively, we struggled to find a rhythm,” Maldonado said. “Gonzaga is a strong team with a lot of length, so it’s tough when we’re not executing and rebounding the way we need to.”

Gonzaga’s physicality and skill were evident as the game went on. The Bulldogs were able to get the win after pulling away in the second half. Gonzaga took advantage of Seattle U’s shooting percentage of 35.8% from the floor and 18 turnovers, turning them into crucial scoring opportunities. 

Sophomore forward Will Heimbrodt was a key part of the Redhawks’ defense, pulling down six rebounds and blocking three shots, including his 50th block of the season, which now stands at 51. Even while Gonzaga’s bench continued to score and keep the Bulldogs ahead, his defensive presence helped stop easy points.

“We know Gonzaga is physical,” Heimbrodt said. “We struggled on rebounds early, so I need to be more physical and engaged. We got out-rebounded by about 20, and next game we need to flip our mentality.”

Gonzaga went on a 19-7 run in the second half, stretching the lead to 58-42 and keeping control for the remainder of the game while Seattle U fell behind. Maldonado and Yeo made some big shots to bring Seattle U within reach as the Redhawks attempted to come back, but Gonzaga proved to be too much to overcome. Despite excellent individual efforts, the Redhawks were unable to get into a consistent offensive rhythm and ultimately lost. Head Coach Chris Victor reflected on the team’s performance after the game. 

“We weren’t playing physical enough, and there was a lot of doubt in our minds,” Victor said. “We have to focus on playing hard and being aggressive for the next game.”

Seattle U struggled offensively, connecting on just 19 of 53 shots and only 5 of 21 from the three-point line. The Redhawks also had 18 turnovers and were outrebounded 44-24 by Gonzaga, who shot 46.7% overall and 33.3% from the three-point line. Free throw shooting was another area where Seattle U fell short, making 7 of 11 (63.6%) while Gonzaga made 9 of 13 (69.2%). 

At the time of publication, the Redhawks picked up their third WCC victory after defeating Loyola Marymount University, 69-59 Jan. 21. Seattle U hits the road Jan. 24 to take on Pacific University (Calif.), looking to gain momentum in conference play.