NCAA Tournament 2017 Sweet 16: Grading Each Team’s Title Hopes

Gonzaga Bulldogs (1) – West Region

Everything about the Gonzaga Bulldogs in terms of efficiency says that they are the best team in the country and, obviously, in the 2017 NCAA Tournament as well. According to KenPom’s ratings, the Bulldogs rank 12th in the country in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency and first in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency. This is far and away the best basketball team overall that Gonzaga has ever fielded. So the narrative of the Zags always letting down in the tournament shouldn’t necessarily apply here.

Nigel Williams-Goss is an elite college basketball player capable of affecting the game and box score in virtually every facet on both ends. What’s more Przemek Karnowski is a load on the interior, but a load with immense skill for a big man. Both of these guys are legitimate problems in most matchups and have the chance of leading them to victory in any game.

However, it’s hard to escape a little bit of concern when it comes to Gonzaga. Yes, they’re incredibly talented and efficient on both ends of the floor. However, when you look at their Sweet 16 matchup against West Virginia and the press that they run, it has to be a bit worrisome. The Zags have thrived off of limiting turnovers this season and the Mountaineers will look to create them at every turn. If they’re able to, it’s hard to say what Gonzaga will be able to do.

With that said, the Bulldogs have be given a quality shot at winning the title. But as far as saying that there’s not a little volatility with this team, that feels like it’s going too far.

Chances: High, But Volatile