Georgia (20-12) vs Gonzaga (25-8)
- When: Mar 20 2025, 4:35 PM
- Where: INTRUST Bank Arena, Wichita, KS, USA
- Where to watch: TBS
Gonzaga vs. Georgia – Midwest Region First Round Preview
Spread: Gonzaga -7.0 | Total: 151.0
A battle of the Bulldogs is set for Thursday in Wichita, as No. 8 Gonzaga takes on No. 9 Georgia in the Midwest Region’s first round. Both teams have taken different paths to this point, with Gonzaga riding a late-season surge and Georgia overcoming SEC struggles to earn its bid. The winner will likely face top-seeded Houston in the next round, assuming SIU Edwardsville doesn’t pull off a major upset.
Gonzaga: A Familiar March Contender
Season Recap & Road to the Tournament
Gonzaga (25-8) didn’t always look like an NCAA Tournament lock, especially after back-to-back losses to Oregon State and Santa Clara in January. However, the Bulldogs flipped the script, closing the season on an 11-2 run, including a statement win over Saint Mary’s in the WCC title game. That victory secured their 26th straight NCAA Tournament appearance, a streak surpassed only by Kansas (35) and Michigan State (27).
While Gonzaga is used to being a high seed, their No. 8 placement is their lowest since 2016, when they still made the Sweet 16. This year’s team may not have the same dominance, but they are still dangerous, boasting experience, depth, and strong offensive efficiency.
Keys to Covering the Spread
Play Through the Post: Graham Ike leads the team with 17.1 points and 7.5 rebounds per game, and his physical presence will be key against a Georgia frontcourt that lacks elite size.
Control the Tempo: Gonzaga thrives in fast-paced games, and point guard Ryan Nembhard leads the nation in assists per game (9.8), ensuring the offense stays in rhythm.
Limit Turnovers: The Zags have struggled at times against aggressive defenses, but their experience in March should help limit mistakes.
Prediction for Gonzaga
Gonzaga has the talent and experience to dictate the pace and control the boards. If they start strong and avoid costly turnovers, they should cover the spread and advance to the second round.
Georgia: A Rebuilding Success Story
Season Recap & Road to the Tournament
Georgia (20-12) returns to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2015, completing a remarkable turnaround under head coach Mike White. The Bulldogs were 6-26 just two seasons ago, but White transformed the program into a team capable of competing on the big stage.
Georgia started 14-2 before struggling in SEC play, but a clutch win over Florida sparked a four-game win streak, securing their place in March Madness. Now, they face a tough Gonzaga squad that has been one of the most consistent March programs in recent history.
Keys to Keeping It Close
Defensive Intensity: Georgia must disrupt Gonzaga’s offensive flow, particularly limiting Nembhard’s playmaking.
Perimeter Shooting: Silas Demary Jr. (56 made 3-pointers) will need to stretch the floor to keep Gonzaga’s defense honest.
Win the Rebounding Battle: Asa Newell (15.3 points, 6.8 rebounds per game) must hold his own in the paint to prevent second-chance points for Gonzaga.
Prediction for Georgia
The Bulldogs have made great strides this season, but Gonzaga’s experience and offensive firepower will be too much. Georgia could keep it competitive early, but expect Gonzaga to pull away late and cover the spread.
Final Betting Take & Predictions:
Spread: Gonzaga -7.0 → The Zags have too much firepower for Georgia to keep up.
Total: Under 151.0 → Both teams have solid defenses, and nerves could lead to a lower-scoring first half.
Best Bet: Gonzaga 2H -3.5 → The Zags’ depth should take over late.
Gonzaga punches their ticket to the second round, where they will likely face No. 1 Houston in a highly anticipated matchup.
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
