Gonzaga Basketball Wins WCC Championship
Gonzaga basketball has clinched the 2026 Credit Union 1 West Coast Conference Women’s Basketball Championship, marking a significant achievement for the program. This victory comes after a two-year gap since their last conference tournament win in 2022.
In the championship game, Gonzaga faced off against the Santa Clara Broncos, where Lauren Whittaker delivered a standout performance, scoring 26 points. Her contributions were vital in leading the Bulldogs to a decisive victory, further solidifying their position in the NCAA Tournament.
With this win, Gonzaga’s record improves to 30-3 for the season, and they are projected to earn a No. 3 seed in the upcoming NCAA Tournament. This projection is bolstered by their impressive NET ranking of No. 6 and a strong 7-2 record in Quad 1 games.
Head coach Lisa Fortier expressed mixed feelings about the victory, stating, “It’s a little confusing,” reflecting on the team’s journey this season. She also praised Whittaker’s ability to perform under pressure, saying, “The best thing about Lauren is it doesn’t matter the stage.” Whittaker, in turn, noted her belief that her family is proud of her achievements.
Gonzaga’s success this season has been characterized by a remarkable scoring differential, averaging 19.4 points more than their opponents per game while allowing just 65.9 points, ranking them 16th in college basketball.
Looking ahead, Gonzaga’s Selection Sunday is scheduled for March 15, 2026, where their NCAA Tournament fate will be officially determined. However, uncertainties remain regarding the health status and return date of Braden Huff, a key player for the team.
Despite their recent success, the impact of other teams’ performances on Gonzaga’s seeding remains uncertain. Oregon State Beavers’ coach Scott Rueck acknowledged the strength of Gonzaga, stating, “There’s no shame in losing to that team,” highlighting the Bulldogs’ formidable reputation in college basketball.
As Gonzaga prepares for the NCAA Tournament, their recent championship win has undoubtedly boosted their confidence and standing in the national landscape of college basketball.
