Gonzaga-BYU key matchup: Grad transfer Jake Toolson brings versatility, experience to Cougars

Senior post Yoeli Childs would be the No. 1 option here, but he’s not expected to play as he recovers from an open dislocation of his right index finger. Senior guards TJ Haws and Jake Toolson are next in line, but we’ll go with Toolson, a grad transfer from Utah Valley who played at BYU as a freshman.

Toolson, a 6-foot-5 wing, does a little of everything for the Cougars. He’s first in minutes (34.1), made 3-pointers (43) and made free throws (40), attempts (45) and percentage (88.9). He’s second in scoring (14.9), assists (84) and steals (19) and third in rebounding (4.8) and blocks ( six).

Toolson was the 2019 Western Athletic Conference Player of the Year after hitting 53.7% from the field, 44.8% on 3s and 85.1% at the free-throw line.

The play-making guard has been particularly hot from distance lately, making at least 50% of his attempts in five of the last six games.

Junior Corey Kispert and sophomore Joel Ayayi are probable defensive options at the outset on Toolson, with Ryan Woolridge likely to defend Haws. Admon Gilder is another possibility coming off the bench.