Gonzaga Faces Oregon State in WCC Semifinal Matchup

Bulldogs look to continue championship game streak against Beavers in emotional matchup

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Gonzaga head coach Mark Few has led the Bulldogs to the WCC Tournament championship game every season, and they'll look to continue that streak on Monday night against Oregon State. The Beavers are led by Wayne Tinkle, who was informed before the tournament that he will not be retained as head coach after this season. Oregon State is hoping to pull off an upset and extend Tinkle's tenure, while Gonzaga aims to secure an NCAA Tournament seeding boost.

Why it matters

This matchup features two programs with contrasting storylines. Gonzaga is looking to maintain its dominance in the WCC, while Oregon State is playing for its coach's job. The outcome could have significant implications for both teams' postseason aspirations.

The details

Gonzaga defeated Oregon State 81-61 in their regular season meeting, led by a career-high 35 points from forward Graham Ike. The Bulldogs will need another dominant performance from Ike, especially if versatile wing Jalen Warley is unable to play due to a quad contusion. Oregon State is coming off an upset win over San Francisco and will be looking to pull off another surprise against the heavily-favored Zags.

  • The game will tip off at 6:00 p.m. PT on Monday, March 9 at The Orleans Arena in Las Vegas.
  • Gonzaga and Oregon State met earlier this season on February 7, with the Bulldogs winning 81-61 in Corvallis.

The players

Mark Few

The head coach of the Gonzaga Bulldogs, who has led the team to the WCC Tournament championship game in every season as head coach.

Wayne Tinkle

The head coach of the Oregon State Beavers, who was informed before the tournament that he will not be retained after this season.

Graham Ike

The 6'9" senior forward for Gonzaga, who scored a career-high 35 points in the teams' regular season matchup.

Jalen Warley

The versatile wing player for Gonzaga who has been dealing with a quad contusion and may be unable to play in this game.

Scott Barnes

The athletic director at Oregon State who decided to not retain Wayne Tinkle as head coach after this season.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.