Colby’s Fall Workout Tour: Gonzaga Takeaways
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The WCAC is widely known as one of the best conferences for high school basketball in the country. Gonzaga has been a program, since under that controls of head coach Steve Turner, that has been a powerhouse both in the…
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Continue ReadingThe WCAC is widely known as one of the best conferences for high school basketball in the country. Gonzaga has been a program, since under that controls of head coach Steve Turner, that has been a powerhouse both in the conference and nationally. The Purple Eagles enter 2023-24 with one of the most impressive casts of juniors and overall, a roster that will put them on strong position to compete for a conference title at American University in February.
Let’s look at some takeaways from my visit:
A dynamic backcourt duo
Even when you consider the nationally known prep schools who can recruit on a national level, it’d be hard to find a better backcourt than the 2025 duo of Nyk Lewis and Derek Dixon Derek Dixon 6'4" | SG Gonzaga | 2025 State #153 Nation MD . Lewis held the keys last year as the initiator offensively and showcased his elite ability of creating for both himself or others. His pace, control and IQ all contribute to the reasons why he’s considered one of the best point guards in his class. Dixon will look to balance the ball handling duties alongside Lewis after a stellar grassroots season with Team Takeover 16s where he solidified himself as a true combo guard. Dixon had built the reputation of being a knock-down shooter off the catch in the first couple of high school seasons, but now has the confidence and freedom to act as another primary playmaker for Coach Turner. It will pay dividends.
A massive addition
The acquisition of 2025 Christian Gurdak as a paint presence cannot be understated. At 6-foot-9, Gurdak is a load in the paint that demands the respect of anyone put in front of him. Having a big like Gurdak is crucial when competing against the like of PVI, Bishop O’Connell, etc. His ability to control the inside at both ends will not only boost their defensive production, but also serve purpose as a dump down option offensively to force double teams and ultimately, open shots for others.
Key role guys
There’s an impressive level of talent throughout the roster and while Coach Turner is still waiting on a few football guys to return to the hardwood, there were a few that caught my eye during workouts. 2024 Blake Harper Blake Harper 6'5" | SG Gonzaga | 2024 State MD has emerged as one of the better under-the-radar unsigned seniors and will take on a bigger role after sprouting from 6’1 to 6’5 in a calendar year. 2026 Saxton Simley is extremely intriguing as a wing with size, shot-making ability and a competitive motor. 2025 Alex Touomou Alex Touomou 6'6" | PF Gonzaga | 2025 State #350 Nation MD has some of the highest upside you’ll find in the league and as he puts forth consistent effort with a mean streak, sky’s the limit. 2025 Will Harper is a valuable three-and-D type of presence, while others along the way will find their niche within the rotation and become routine contributors.