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Gonzaga Basketball

Gonzaga-Xavier key matchups

Xavier guard Trevon Bluiett dribbles next to Arizona center Chance Comanche during Thursday’s Sweet 16 game. (Tony Avelar / Associated Press)

Gonzaga’s defensive priority against Xavier is dealing with 6-foot-6 junior wing Trevon Bluiett. The versatile Bluiett has made 11 3-pointers and scored at least 20 points in all three of Xavier’s NCAA tournament wins.

The Zags probably have two options in their starting lineup. They can go with speed and quickness with Jordan Mathews or size with Johnathan Williams. Silas Melson will probably be the first option coming off the bench.

Xavier’s task will be Gonzaga bigs Przemek Karnowski, Zach Collins, Killian Tillie and Williams. The Zags will have a size advantage but the Musketeers figure to play a zone defense. Tyrique Jones, 6-9 and 237 pounds, is the only starter taller than 6-6 but 6-10 reserve Sean O’Mara contributed eight points and four rebounds in a victory over Arizona on Thursday.