For Pete’s sake: One-time Gonzaga manager gets a little time on the court

For the last four years, most Gonzaga fans have come to know Brian Pete as the Zags’ team manager.

But Pete took on a much different role ahead of Gonzaga’s game against Creighton earlier this month. The Zags added him to the roster after suffering a few setbacks, including ankle injuries to freshman guard Corey Kispert and sophomore guard Alex Martin.

“It was more of a practice thing,” Pete said. “Just kind of having enough bodies and a little more help.”

Pete’s role extended beyond just practice when he came off the bench for the first time this season in the final minutes of Gonzaga’s 81-48 win over Pacific on Thursday. The Zags had built a 79-46 lead, allowing enough cushion for Pete, a Portland native, to grab a couple of minutes on the court.

Pete was welcomed to the floor with a huge applause by the fans. He didn’t attempt any shots, but the court time was enough to keep a smile on his face later in the locker room.

“It was pretty surreal. Awesome moment, thanks to the guys. It doesn’t happen unless they play as well as they did,” Pete said. “It was just a cool moment, being on the team for a while.”