Scheduling in college basketball requires a careful balance by coaches and athletic directors across the country.
The strength of schedule significantly impacts a team’s resume, influenced by the NET rankings and other advanced metrics. A schedule with too many weak nonconference opponents can hurt a team’s ranking unless offset by a strong conference schedule. Conversely, facing too many top 25 opponents in November and December can negatively impact a team’s win-loss record if there are no easier games in between.
Mark Few and the Gonzaga men’s basketball program navigate this scheduling tightrope every offseason. Their strategy has paid off over the years, with the Bulldogs reaching nine consecutive Sweet 16s and two Final Fours, competing against some of the top teams during the regular season, even if it means traveling extensively.
In the 2023-24 regular season, Gonzaga played five nonconference teams that qualified for the 2024 NCAA Tournament, with three of those games on neutral courts or away. Next season’s nonconference schedule looks equally challenging, potentially involving more road games.
Here’s a look at Gonzaga’s confirmed opponents for the 2024-25 season:
BATTLE 4 ATLANTIS: NOV. 27-29, BAHAMAS
Teams: Arizona, Indiana, Louisville, West Virginia, Oklahoma, Davidson, Providence, Gonzaga
The 2024 Battle 4 Atlantis tournament offers a significant challenge for Gonzaga. Arizona, expected to be a top-10 team, Indiana, with a revamped roster, and other quality opponents like Providence, will make this event highly competitive.
UCLA BRUINS: DATE TBA, INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA
Gonzaga and UCLA will renew their West Coast rivalry at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. Gonzaga, having won the last four meetings since 2021, will face a restructured UCLA team featuring notable transfers and recruits.
KENTUCKY WILDCATS: DEC. 7, SEATTLE
The third game in the nonconference series with Kentucky will be in Seattle. Gonzaga will face a new-look Kentucky team led by former BYU coach Mark Pope, who has been active in the transfer portal.
UCONN HUSKIES: DEC. 14, NEW YORK
A week after playing Kentucky, Gonzaga will travel to Madison Square Garden to play the reigning two-time national champions, UConn. The Huskies, aiming for a three-peat, have bolstered their roster with top recruits and transfers.
SAN DIEGO STATE AZTECS: DATE TBA, SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA
Gonzaga will have a true nonconference road game against San Diego State at the Viejas Arena. The Bulldogs will seek to avenge a home loss from the previous season. San Diego State, despite some roster changes, remains a formidable opponent.
This challenging nonconference schedule will test Gonzaga early in the season, helping to prepare them for their postseason aspirations.
