College Hoops: Gonzaga v. Alabama

Gonzaga and Alabama square off Monday night at MGM Grand Garden Arena in what should feel more like a March preview than a November game. The Zags opened -3.5 with a sky-high total of 173.5, and that number tells the story: this one is built for pace, space, and buckets. Both teams want to run, both can score in waves, and neither is shy about trading punches for 40 minutes.

A lot of people expected Gonzaga to take a small step back this year, but early returns say the opposite. Mark Few’s group has been exceptional, stacking convincing wins over Oklahoma, Creighton, and Arizona State. The Bulldogs have looked complete on both ends, sitting top-10 caliber in efficiency offensively and defensively. That balance is what makes this team dangerous—Gonzaga can win a track meet or a grinder if the game unexpectedly tightens.

Alabama has been every bit as impressive. Wins over St. John’s and Illinois plus a tight loss to #1 Purdue give the Tide credibility, and they’ve probably played the toughest early schedule in the country so far. Nate Oats has another tough, athletic roster with multiple shot-makers, led by Labaron Philon, and they’ll pressure Gonzaga in transition.

Expect Alabama money to show up. This matchup profiles closer to pick’em than a clear Gonzaga edge, and a one-possession finish wouldn’t surprise anyone.

Pick:
Gonzaga 89
Alabama 90