REPORT: Gonzaga to open 26-27 season vs Purdue as ELITE non-con schedule grows! | Innocenti's impact

Gonzaga Bulldogs ignite buzz with a blockbuster non-conference opener against Purdue at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas for the 2026-27 college basketball season. Can Mark Few finally conquer the Boilermakers, a team that’s ended Gonzaga's tournament dreams twice and holds a 5-0 record in their matchups? Andy Patton breaks down why this marquee showdown, along with power matchups against Kentucky, UCLA, Creighton, and potentially Oregon, sets Gonzaga up for a loaded schedule as they join the new-look Pac-12.

Emmanuel Innocenti’s defensive prowess earns high praise from Coach Few, spotlighting his impact on Gonzaga's evolving ball pressure and versatility. Andy explores Innocenti's shutdown performance against Washington State’s Ace Glass and the shift towards switch-heavy coverage. The episode also celebrates Lisa Fortier and the women's team, who are poised for yet another NCAA Tournament run after a dominant Paint the Kennel Pink win, fueled by standout freshmen Lauren Whittaker and Jaiden Haile.

Written work covering Gonzaga at SI: https://www.si.com/college/gonzaga

Locked On Zags Discord: https://discord.gg/FFNgKfXbKd 

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