Gonzaga Faces Potential Rematch Against Former Conference Foe in Bracketology

Bulldogs projected as No. 3 seed in West Region, could meet BYU or Miami (OH) in second round

Feb. 20, 2026 at 9:22pm

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According to ESPN Bracketologist Joe Lunardi, the Gonzaga Bulldogs are projected as a No. 3 seed in the West Region of the 2026 NCAA Tournament, where they would face No. 14 seed North Dakota State in the first round. If Gonzaga advances, they could potentially face either No. 6 seed BYU or No. 11 seed Miami (OH) in the second round - a rematch of a longtime conference rivalry for the Zags.

Why it matters

Gonzaga's potential matchup against either BYU or Miami (OH) would make for a great storyline, as the Bulldogs have a long history with BYU from their time in the same conference. Meanwhile, Miami (OH) is the lone remaining undefeated team in college basketball, boasting one of the highest scoring and most efficient offenses in the country.

The details

Gonzaga is currently 26-2 overall and 14-1 in league play, bouncing back strong from a road loss to the Portland Pilots earlier this month. While the loss makes getting a No. 2 seed a tall order, the Zags are still in position to secure a No. 3 seed. If Gonzaga were to advance past North Dakota State, they could face the winner of the No. 6 BYU vs. No. 11 Miami (OH) matchup.

  • Gonzaga hosts Pacific at the Kennel on Saturday, Feb. 21 at 6:00 PM PT, looking for their 23rd straight win over the Tigers.
  • Lunardi updated his projections on Friday, February 20, 2026.

The players

Mark Few

Head coach of the Gonzaga Bulldogs.

Dave Richman

Head coach of the North Dakota State Bison.

Matt Painter

Head coach of the Purdue Boilermakers.

Tommy Lloyd

Head coach of the Arizona Wildcats.

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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.