Gonzaga may consider pursuing Trent Perry, Ilane Fibleuil, and three additional players to complete their roster for the 2024-25 season.
After addressing the departure of six players due to graduation, NBA draft entries, or transfers from Gonzaga in the previous offseason, Mark Few and his coaching staff may find themselves with a lighter load in rebuilding or reshaping the Bulldogs’ roster this summer.
Almost a month since their season concluded with a Sweet 16 defeat against Purdue, Gonzaga appears poised to lose only one scholarship player, fifth-year senior forward Anton Watson. Moreover, they’ve already secured a commitment from Michael Ajayi, a top scorer from Pepperdine transferring into the West Coast Conference, offering a head start for next season’s preparations.
Currently, Gonzaga retains two available scholarships for the 2024-25 season, suggesting they may seek to bolster their roster depth at specific positions by filling one or both of these slots.
Here’s a look at five potential candidates, including high school prospects and college transfers, whom Gonzaga may consider to enhance their squad next season:
1. Trent Perry, Guard, 6-foot-4, 175 pounds
– Formerly from Harvard-Westlake High School, Perry had previously considered Gonzaga among other universities before committing to USC. With his recruitment now reopened, Gonzaga may reignite interest in this four-star guard, offering him a chance to contribute meaningfully off the bench while learning from experienced players like Ryan Nembhard and Nolan Hickman.
2. Wesley Yates, Guard, 6-4, 200
– Originally from Washington, Yates opted to transfer following a coaching change within the Pac-12 conference. Although limited by injury last season, Yates is regarded as a dynamic scorer and could provide Gonzaga with a unique skill set among their guards.
3. Ilane Fibleuil, Forward, 6-6, 200
– Fibleuil, who previously chose UCLA over Gonzaga, has entered the transfer portal after a less productive season with the Bruins. Despite his limited role, his performance against Gonzaga showcased his potential utility off the bench, particularly in rebounding against larger opponents.
4. Nolan Traore, Guard, 6-4, 180
– A rising talent from Saint-Quentin in France, Traore has attracted interest from Gonzaga after a standout performance at the Nike Hoop Summit. Known for his versatility and maturity on the court, Traore could offer Gonzaga a reliable ball-handler and defensive presence.
5. Ian Martinez, Guard, 6-3, 185
– With a history spanning multiple universities, Martinez seeks a new destination for his final season of eligibility. Gonzaga, among other schools, has expressed interest in Martinez, recognizing his scoring prowess and defensive capabilities, which could complement the Bulldogs’ roster composition.
As Gonzaga evaluates its options, these potential additions could play vital roles in reinforcing the team’s depth and competitiveness for the upcoming season.