Gonzaga men’s basketball roster update for 2024-25: Zags welcome defensive wing Emmanuel Innocenti from Tarleton State.

The Gonzaga Bulldogs have high hopes for a national championship in the 2024-25 season. With some players still undecided in the transfer portal, the roster could change over the summer. For now, here’s a look at the expected lineup for the Zags, a team projected to be in the top-10 preseason rankings.

**RETURNERS:**
– G Ryan Nembhard
– G Nolan Hickman
– G/F Steele Venters
– G Dusty Stromer
– G Joe Few
– G Joaquim Aruz-Moore
– F Ben Gregg
– F Braden Huff
– F Jun Seok Yeo
– F Graham Ike

Following a Sweet 16 appearance, a more cohesive group is anticipated to start strong next fall. Early top-25 rankings suggest the Bulldogs could enter November as a top-five team, thanks to the extensive experience returning from a 27-8 squad. The Zags are set to return 81.4% of last season’s playing time, the highest retention rate since 2005-06.

While continuity isn’t always critical for championship teams, it is beneficial for the point guard position. Seven of the last ten national champions had the same starting point guard from the previous season. This trend is favorable for the Bulldogs, who return All-WCC guard Ryan Nembhard. He set a single-season assist record and, with a familiar team around him, is poised for a standout senior season.

Nolan Hickman, now a senior, had his best season last year, averaging 14.0 points and shooting 41.3% from 3-point range. He will continue to play a significant role next to Nembhard.

Graham Ike leads a versatile frontcourt, excelling in the pick-and-roll game with Nembhard. With floor spacing from Braden Huff and Ben Gregg, the Zags’ bigs can impact the game in various ways. Gregg’s return adds versatility and energy, crucial during their strong finish last season.

Dusty Stromer and Jun Seok Yeo have opportunities to expand their roles. Stromer’s outside shooting and defense are assets, while Yeo is developing solid habits as a college player.

**DEPARTURES:**
– F Anton Watson (graduation)
– F Colby Brooks (transfer portal)
– F Pavle Stosic (transfer portal)
– G Luka Krajnovic (transfer portal)

Gonzaga bids farewell to Anton Watson, one of the program’s most successful players. Watson, who graduated, left a legacy with his defensive versatility and high basketball IQ. He is the only player in program history with over 1,400 points, 700 rebounds, and 200 assists. Replacing him will require a collective effort.

Luka Krajnovic and Pavle Stosic seek more playing time elsewhere after limited roles as freshmen.

**NEWCOMERS:**
– F Michael Ajayi (Pepperdine)
– G Khalif Battle (Arkansas)
– G Emmanuel Innocenti (Tarleton State)
– G Cade Orness (freshman)

Coach Few addressed key weaknesses by adding top transfers Michael Ajayi and Khalif Battle. Ajayi, an All-WCC player, brings a 47.0% 3-point shooting accuracy to a team that struggled from beyond the arc. Battle, a dynamic scorer, provides depth in the backcourt and is known for his scoring and ability to draw fouls. Emmanuel Innocenti, a WAC All-Defensive team member, adds defensive prowess.

How these new additions will blend with the returning players remains to be seen, but Few and his coaching staff are expected to find the right mix.