* This website participates in the Amazon Affiliate Program and earns from qualifying purchases.
Gonzaga's Khalif Battle Shines in WCC Semifinal Victory
As the West Coast Conference (WCC) Tournament heats up, Gonzaga's Khalif Battle delivered an electrifying performance that helped secure the Bulldogs a spot in the title game. After defeating the University of San Francisco (USF) with a final score of 85-76, Gonzaga extended its remarkable winning streak against the Dons to 33 games. But what made this victory particularly noteworthy was the impressive showing of both Battle and his teammate Graham Ike.
The matchup at Orleans Arena played out with the kind of tension that has characterized many Gonzaga-San Francisco games over recent years. The first half saw the teams exchange leads, with halftime scores often indicating a narrow margin. Gonzaga found itself trailing at the break this time, but the squad's resilience shone through in the second half, thanks in large part to the standout performances from Ike and Battle.
Graham Ike seized the momentum early in the second half, scoring four consecutive baskets to shift the game. The senior forward finished with a game-high 27 points and 10 rebounds, accounting for a significant portion of Gonzaga's offensive output. However, it was Khalif Battle who truly transformed the game with his scoring burst after a quiet first half.
In just the second half alone, Battle scored 16 points, showcasing his skills with a combination of three-pointers and free throws. His 21-point performance, inclusive of 5 of 11 from the field and 3 of 7 from beyond the arc, highlighted his importance to the Bulldogs' strategy. "You can’t walk two steps in a hotel without somebody saying ‘Go Zags,’ so it’s been a big family atmosphere," Battle expressed, showcasing the camaraderie and support he feels from Gonzaga fans.
The Gonzaga squad now looks ahead to their 28th consecutive title game, a testament to the program's dominance in the WCC. As they prepare for the next matchup, the Bulldogs are aware that they not only aim to extend their winning streak but also to secure their place in the NCAA Tournament.
Despite the challenges posed by USF, particularly in the absence of key player Marcus Williams, the Dons fought valiantly. Malik Thomas led the scoring for USF with 27 points, exhibiting his skills and tenacity despite the team's defeat. The Dons, especially under the guidance of coach Chris Gerlufsen, have shown they are capable of competing at a high level, making this victory even more significant for Gonzaga.
The upcoming title game promises to be an exciting showdown, where Gonzaga will seek to maintain their stellar performance and add another trophy to their collection. Keep an eye on Khalif Battle and Graham Ike, as their combined efforts could be the key to Gonzaga's march toward another championship. Will they continue their winning ways and shine on the big stage once more? Only time will tell, but one thing is for certain: Khalif Battle has etched his name into the Gonzaga legacy with his clutch performances and unwavering spirit.
* This website participates in the Amazon Affiliate Program and earns from qualifying purchases.