With just weeks remaining before the excitement of the men’s college basketball season kicks off, the Associated Press has unveiled its annual preseason top 25 rankings. This year, the rankings have a notable twist for fans of the Pac-12 Conference, which will be undergoing significant changes in the coming years. While the current iteration of the Pac-12 will not be represented in this year’s rankings, one future member stands tall at No. 6: Mark Few’s Gonzaga Bulldogs.

Gonzaga enters the 2024-2025 season following a strong performance in the previous year, finishing with a 27-8 record and advancing to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament. This marks a continuation of their impressive streak, as the Bulldogs have now qualified for the NCAA tournament 25 consecutive times, an extraordinary feat that underscores their status as a powerhouse in college basketball. This streak is even more impressive considering the 2020 tournament was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, making their resilience and consistency over the years even more remarkable.

The announcement of Gonzaga joining the Pac-12, which was made on October 1, adds an exciting dimension to the future of the conference. Beginning in the summer of 2026, Gonzaga will be joined by several other institutions, including Utah State, San Diego State, Colorado State, Fresno State, and Boise State. This expansion aims to bolster the conference’s competitiveness in the ever-evolving landscape of college athletics. For the next two seasons, however, Gonzaga, alongside the Oregon State Beavers, will continue to compete in the West Coast Conference (WCC), where they have long been a dominant force.

As they prepare for the upcoming season, Gonzaga’s roster showcases a mix of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers. Under Coach Mark Few’s leadership, the Bulldogs have consistently developed talent and fostered a winning culture. The coaching staff’s ability to adapt and implement strategies that leverage the strengths of their players has been a hallmark of Gonzaga’s success. This season will be no different, as they aim to build on their previous successes while preparing for the challenges that lie ahead in a new conference landscape.

The addition of key transfers and returning players has positioned Gonzaga well for another competitive season. The Bulldogs have welcomed several talented individuals who can contribute immediately. With the likes of Michael Ajayi and Khalif Battle joining the squad, Gonzaga has enhanced its depth and versatility. Ajayi, who made his mark at Pepperdine, brings rebounding prowess and shooting ability, while Battle’s scoring capability adds a dynamic element to the Bulldogs’ offense.

Their first game of the season is set for November 4, when they will host Baylor. This matchup is highly anticipated, as it pits Gonzaga against a formidable opponent in the Bears, who have their own aspirations of competing for a national title. Starting the season against a team of Baylor’s caliber is a tremendous opportunity for Gonzaga to set the tone for the year and showcase their talent on a national stage.

The Gonzaga-Baylor game will not only be a test of skill but also a chance to gauge how well the team has gelled during the offseason. The preseason is often a time for teams to experiment with different lineups and strategies, and early matchups can reveal insights into a team’s strengths and areas for improvement. For Gonzaga, the pressure to perform is heightened by their lofty preseason ranking and the expectations that accompany it.

As the Bulldogs prepare for their inaugural game, the excitement surrounding the program extends beyond the current season. The decision to join the Pac-12 is a significant one, positioning Gonzaga among traditional powerhouses and enhancing its visibility in the college basketball landscape. This move not only reflects Gonzaga’s ambitions but also signals the Pac-12’s commitment to expanding its footprint in the world of college athletics.

For Gonzaga fans, the prospect of competing in the Pac-12 brings a sense of anticipation for future matchups against established programs. This transition will offer new rivalries and opportunities for the Bulldogs to showcase their talents in a highly competitive environment. Playing against teams that have historically performed well in the NCAA tournament will provide Gonzaga with valuable experience and the chance to solidify its reputation as a premier basketball program.

Meanwhile, the current state of the Pac-12 presents its own set of challenges. With several member schools departing for other conferences, the future structure of the league is in flux. Gonzaga’s entry into the conference, along with the addition of other institutions, aims to provide stability and competitive balance in the face of these changes. The landscape of college basketball is evolving, and Gonzaga’s proactive approach positions it well for success in this new era.

The Bulldogs’ ability to attract talent and maintain a high level of play has solidified their status as a national contender. Mark Few’s vision for the program, combined with the commitment of the players, creates a foundation for continued excellence. As the team prepares for a season filled with promise, the Bulldogs are determined to make their mark and build on their storied legacy.

Looking ahead, the combination of Gonzaga’s established success and the challenges posed by a new conference affiliation will undoubtedly shape the narrative of the upcoming season. With their eyes set on both the national championship and the opportunity to excel in the Pac-12, the Bulldogs are ready to embrace the journey ahead. As they take the court this season, they carry the weight of expectations, but also the excitement of new beginnings and possibilities.

In addition to the excitement surrounding Gonzaga, fans will be closely watching the performance of the other teams in the preseason rankings. The top 25 is filled with storied programs and rising contenders, and the competition will be fierce. The Bulldogs’ standing among these elite teams speaks to their respect within the college basketball community, and they will be eager to prove themselves as legitimate championship contenders.

Throughout the season, key matchups and conference games will be pivotal in shaping Gonzaga’s path. Each game presents an opportunity to showcase their skills, develop chemistry, and ultimately secure a favorable position for the NCAA tournament. With a deep roster and a winning mentality, the Bulldogs are poised to make a significant impact as they embark on this new chapter in their storied history.

The anticipation for the 2024-2025 season is palpable, and Gonzaga is ready to embrace the challenge. As they strive for excellence, the Bulldogs will draw on their rich history while looking forward to the future. With a solid foundation, a commitment to growth, and a drive to succeed, Gonzaga aims to make waves in both the West Coast Conference and the upcoming transition to the Pac-12.

As the season unfolds, the journey ahead will be filled with ups and downs, but for the Gonzaga Bulldogs, it’s all part of the process. The excitement of the games, the camaraderie among teammates, and the support of their dedicated fan base will fuel their aspirations. With each step taken, Gonzaga continues to redefine what it means to be a contender in college basketball, setting the stage for another thrilling season ahead.