Killian Tillie takes advantage of extra healing time

SALT LAKE CITY – Gonzaga had a short break after winning the WCC tournament before beginning preparations for the NCAA tournament.

That was just fine with freshman forward Killian Tillie.

He played in all three games in Las Vegas with his right (shooting) hand braced to protect a broken bone suffered late in the regular season.

“Sometimes it was hard, like in the battles (for loose balls),” the native of France said. “I would put my hands in there, have to reflex and get out. Sometimes it was hurting, but it’s basketball.”

The time between tournaments has assisted with the healing process.

“My hand is feeling a lot better,” he said. “It was bothering me a little bit shooting 3s (in Vegas) but I made four free throws so I was happy for that. I worked on it a lot this week and I was shooting 3s better.”