Gonzaga basketball: Should Zags’ Zach Collins go to the NBA draft?
By Doug Winkey
McDonald’s All-American Zach Collins was a big part of Gonzaga basketball this year. Should the freshman go professional this spring?
Gonzaga basketball was an incredible story this year. Players young and old helped the team reach not only its first Final Four ever, but get the team within just a few plays of winning the national title. The question here is whether freshman phenom Zach Collins should jump to the NBA or not.
Collins came into the program as one of the highest Gonzaga recruits ever. The 7’0″, 230-pound McDonald’s All-American had a terrific season in Spokane. He averaged 10.0 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks despite playing fewer than 18 minutes per game. His shooting splits of 65/48/74 are excellent when you consider what his potential might be at such a young age.
The Bulldog forward might have played himself into NBA lottery consideration this March. His numbers weren’t incredible (9.0 ppg, 6.8 rebounds, 3.0 blocks in six games), but his presence was undeniable in a few games. His most notable performance came against South Carolina where Collins had 14, 13, and six swats in the thrilling national semifinal. That game alone probably played him into the early-exit conversation. He certainly got a ton of exposure in prime time contests compared to late starts on the west coast.
However, Collins has a ton more he can prove if he wants. He had a decent game against North Carolina in the championship, but was hampered by foul trouble and couldn’t dominate the Tar Heels’ experienced bigs. Collins could be the face of the program if he returns, polish his post moves and shooting, and lead a deep roster on another magical run.
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The team has plenty of front-court options if Collins leaves, but their ceiling is Final Four should he stay. I hope the freshman returns and pushes the Zags into the title conversation again. We could be watching Gonzaga cut down the nets next year if Collins does indeed return to Spokane.