A key West Coast Conference showdown takes place on February 18, 2026, as the No. 11 Gonzaga Bulldogs travel to face the San Francisco Dons at the Chase Center. With the conference title race entering its final stretch, this game carries major importance for Gonzaga, who are fighting to secure the top position and strengthen their NCAA Tournament seeding.
Gonzaga enter the matchup in excellent form with a strong winning run and one of the most balanced teams in college basketball. Their offense is efficient, but their defensive discipline has been the biggest strength, allowing them to control games even when outside shots are not falling.
San Francisco, meanwhile, are playing for momentum and postseason positioning. The Dons rely heavily on perimeter shooting and fast-paced offense. However, their inconsistency against top defensive teams has been a concern. The last meeting between these teams was decided by just two points, showing that San Francisco can compete if their shooters get hot.
This game is expected to be competitive early, but Gonzaga’s depth, defense, and inside scoring advantage make them the clear favorites.
Match Details
| Match | Gonzaga vs San Francisco |
|---|---|
| Date | February 18, 2026 |
| Time | 11:00 PM ET (Approx. 7:30 AM IST, Feb 19) |
| Venue | Chase Center, San Francisco |
| TV Channel | ESPN2 |
| Streaming | ESPN App / ESPN2 |
Team Records & Conference Standing
| Team | Overall Record | Conference Record |
|---|---|---|
| Gonzaga | 25–2 | 13–1 (WCC Leaders) |
| San Francisco | 15–13 | 7–8 |
Gonzaga sit comfortably at the top of the conference, while San Francisco are in the middle of the table and looking to improve their record against elite teams.
Recent Form & Momentum
Gonzaga Bulldogs
Gonzaga are on a three-game winning streak and recently defeated Santa Clara 94–86. Even in games where their three-point shooting struggles, the Bulldogs continue to score efficiently through paint dominance and transition opportunities.
San Francisco Dons
The Dons are coming off a solid road win against San Diego. Their offense depends heavily on three-point shooting and free throws. However, they have struggled to defend consistently, especially against high-level offenses.
Previous Meeting (2025-26 Season)
| Date | Result |
|---|---|
| Jan 2026 | Gonzaga 68 – 66 San Francisco |
In that game, San Francisco made 14 three-pointers, yet still fell short, highlighting Gonzaga’s defensive control and efficiency inside.
Team Stats Comparison (2025-26)
| Category | Gonzaga | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Points Per Game | 87.6 | 75.0 |
| Points Allowed | 67.2 | 72.7 |
| Rebounds | 37.1 | 33.7 |
| Offensive Efficiency | Elite | Average |
| Playing Style | Paint-focused, controlled | Perimeter-heavy, faster pace |
Gonzaga hold a strong edge in scoring margin and defensive performance.
Key Players to Watch
Gonzaga Bulldogs
| Player | Stats |
|---|---|
| Graham Ike | 19.8 PPG, 8.7 RPG |
| Braeden Smith | 4.1 APG |
| Tyon Grant-Foster | Key scoring support |
Ike has been in outstanding form recently, averaging over 26 points per game in recent outings.
San Francisco Dons
| Player | Stats |
|---|---|
| Ryan Beasley | 13.8 PPG, 3.8 APG |
| David Fuchs | 11.8 PPG, 7.4 RPG |
| Vukasin Masic | Perimeter scoring threat |
San Francisco’s chances depend heavily on outside shooting and guard play.
Injury Report (Latest)
Gonzaga
- Braden Huff – Out (ankle/knee injury)
- Jalen Warley – Available but limited
San Francisco
- Tyrone Riley – Questionable
- No major additional injuries reported
Huff’s absence slightly reduces Gonzaga’s bench scoring, but their starting unit remains strong.
Betting Odds & Market Lines
| Market | Odds |
|---|---|
| Spread | Gonzaga -14 to -14.5 |
| Moneyline | Gonzaga -1300 to -1560 |
| Over/Under | 148.5 – 149 |
Betting Trends & Insights
- Gonzaga: 16–11 ATS this season
- San Francisco: 12–15 ATS
- Gonzaga scoring margin: +20.4 points per game
- San Francisco games average: 147.8 total points
- Over trend: 7–2 in last nine Dons games
The pace suggests moderate scoring, but Gonzaga’s defensive control could slow the game.
Head-to-Head Overview
| Category | Record |
|---|---|
| Overall Series | Gonzaga dominant |
| This Season | Gonzaga lead 1–0 |
Gonzaga have historically controlled this matchup, especially through interior scoring and defensive discipline.
Best Picks for Gonzaga vs San Francisco
- Spread Pick: San Francisco +14.5 (to stay competitive at home)
- Total Pick: Under 148.5 (controlled pace expected)
- Player Focus:
- Graham Ike Over 21+ points potential
- Gonzaga Team Total Over 81.5 (alternative angle)
Match Prediction
Gonzaga’s ability to score efficiently inside and defend without relying on three-point shooting gives them a clear edge. San Francisco may keep the game close early, but sustaining offense against Gonzaga’s defense will be difficult.
Predicted Score:
Gonzaga 80 – 64 San Francisco
Gonzaga enter this game as the stronger and more complete team. Their defensive consistency, rebounding advantage, and efficient offense should help them control the tempo and secure another important conference win. San Francisco’s three-point shooting gives them an outside chance to stay competitive, but unless they produce an exceptional shooting performance, the Bulldogs are expected to dominate and maintain their position at the top of the WCC.
