Gonzaga Prevails in Maui: 76-57 Win Over Syracuse Highlights Dominant Rebounding and Resilient Performance

Despite a second-half push from Syracuse, Gonzaga’s 15-5 run and standout performances in the Maui Invitational showcased their strength, leaving Syracuse to regroup under first-year coach Adrian Autry’s leadership as Gonzaga looks ahead to the fifth-place game in the Maui Invitational against either UCLA or Chaminade. (Photo: sandiegouniontribune)

Gonzaga’s Rebounding Domination and Team Resilience Shine in 76-57 Victory Over Syracuse at Maui Invitational

According to source, in a decisive Maui Invitational performance, No. 11 Gonzaga secured a 76-57 victory over Syracuse in a losers bracket game, with Nolan Hickman leading the charge with 19 points. Hickman showcased his skills in the second half contributing 12 crucial points, while Graham Ike and Anton Watson delivered double-doubles, scoring 16 points with 14 rebounds and 12 points with 13 rebounds, respectively. The Bulldogs dominated the boards with a 48-28 rebounding advantage and held a significant 25-8 lead in second-chance points. Ryan Nembhard added 11 points, seven assists and five rebounds to Gonzaga’s impressive performance.

Gonzaga’s head coach, Mark Few, expressed pride in his team’s response, citing their great energy, effort, and toughness during the Maui Invitational. Despite a quick turnaround and an early morning game, the Bulldogs demonstrated resilience, securing a notable win.

The team’s rebounding prowess, particularly the significant rebounding differential, played a pivotal role in their success throughout the Maui Invitational. The Bulldogs led by as many as 23 points, showcasing their dominance in this Maui Invitational matchup.

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Gonzaga Triumphs Over Syracuse in Maui, Eyeing Redemption in Fifth-Place Battle

Syracuse made a push in the second half, narrowing the gap to 51-45, but Gonzaga responded with a decisive 15-5 run during the Maui Invitational. Graham Ike’s steal, leading to a breakaway dunk by Ryan Nembhard, extended Gonzaga’s lead to 66-46 with 4:17 remaining in the Maui Invitational. Judah Mantz led Syracuse with 22 points, and JJ Starling contributed 15, but Gonzaga’s overall performance proved too much for the Orange during the Maui Invitational.

Looking ahead, Syracuse, under the leadership of first-year coach Adrian Autry, aims to continue its collective growth and player development in the Maui Invitational. The team, predominantly comprised of sophomores and juniors, faces a challenging journey in the ACC following the Maui Invitational. Gonzaga, rebounding from a previous loss to No. 2 Purdue, showcases a balanced scoring lineup and will strive for another victory in the fifth-place game against either UCLA or Chaminade on Wednesday in the Maui Invitational.

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