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Gonzaga Basketball

Difference makers: Joel Ayayi, Corey Kispert guide Gonzaga to rout of Saint Mary’s

By Jim Meehan jimm@spokesman.com(509) 459-5585

Joel Ayayi

Ayayi hit a 3-pointer for Gonzaga’s first basket, drove around Kyle Bowen for a layup and hit another 3-pointer as the Zags raced in front 24-12. Ayayi had 11 points by intermission and finished 16 points, six rebounds and two assists. He made 6 of 8 shots, including 4 of 5 behind the arc.

Corey Kispert

Kispert poured in 14 points in the opening half and finished with 20, his first 20-point game since Jan. 14. The 6-foot-7 senior wing made 8 of 13 field-goal attempts, one 3-pointer and 3 of 4 free throws.

Turning point

This one was over shortly after the opening tip. The Zags scored on four of their first five possessions and led by double figures after just 6 minutes, 30 seconds. GU doubled up the Gaels 24-12 with 11:30 remaining after Ayayi’s 3-pointer.