Brett Bailey plays last game in his hometown for San Diego
It wasn’t just another basketball game for San Diego’s Brett Bailey.
Thursday night was Bailey’s last game in the McCarthey Athletic Center, and the last time he’ll take the court in his hometown.
Bailey, a University High standout who scored a Greater Spokane League record 47 points against Rogers during his senior year, only scored five points on Thursday when USD fell to Gonzaga, 79-43. However, his point total from Thursday doesn’t detract from his accomplishments this season.
The senior led the Toreros in points (17.4) and rebounds (7.0) per game entering Thursday. Earlier this season, he scored 17 points in twelve straight games, including 22 points against UCLA.
“He’s done a nice job, he’s really improved this year,” said Gonzaga head coach Mark Few. “His numbers going in he really had our attention.”
With his parents in attendance, Bailey played 36 minutes and pulled down five rebounds.
“Gonzaga is an awesome place to play, anytime you get to play in the Kennel it’s a special experience,” Bailey said.
The McCarthey Athletic Center is not a foreign environment to Bailey.
While Bailey still lived in Spokane, he would play summer league games at the McCarthey. Also, following his commitment to USD after his sophomore year of high school, he would watch the Zags host the Toreros for their annual matchup in Spokane.
During his return, Bailey has stuck with the team, which included a stop at the Red Lion BBQ and Pub along with a night at the Davenport Grand.
“It’s always fun coming back to the hometown, no matter who you are and where you are from,” Bailey said.