Gonzaga-Pacific: 3 keys to the Bulldogs’ 86-66 victory over the Tigers

Key moment

The Zags trailed 10-6 with 13:50 left after a slow start, but they completely dominated the remainder of the half. Gonzaga had runs of 11-0, 7-0, 7-0 and 7-0 to take command 39-20 at the break. Rui Hachimura and Brandon Clarke worked over Pacific’s undersized frontcourt and Geno Crandall provided a nice lift off the bench with four points and two steals.

Offensive MVP

Hachimura poured in 27 points on 11-of-16 shooting. He did most of his damage in the paint and by picking up fouls against the Tigers’ interior players, but he also stepped outside and drained his only 3-point attempt. He made 4 of 5 free throws.

Defensive MVP

Clarke swatted three shots in the first half to set the defensive tone. He stayed with 6-foot-5 guard Jahlil Tripp on Pacific’s last possession of the half and rejected Tripp’s shot in the lane. Clarke, who collected 13 rebounds, nine at the defensive end, showed off his versatility, spending time on Tripp, 6-6 forward Anthony Townes and 6-10 center Zach Cameron.