Instead of our usual ‘let’s try to piece together what we know about our opponent writeup’ normally found in this here space, we’ve reached out to The Kennel Report, an unofficial, student run blog about Gonzaga, to get the scoop on IU’s next opponent. Our email exchange begins…Now.

Inside the Hall: One of the fascinating things about Gonzaga is how they’ve been able to keep Mark Few in Spokane despite obvious interest from other programs. Two-part question: 1. How has Gonzaga been able to hold on to Few? and 2. Why has Few resisted the temptation to jump ship? Was he scared off by the Dan Monson epic fail at Minnesota?

The Kennel Report: The decision by Mark Few to remain in Spokane despite overtures from programs like Indiana, Kentucky, and Stanford has been the key to Gonzaga sustaining this great run. Here is a story that took place today that I think might hold the answer to your question. After class this morning, I had some time to kill so I went to the student center on campus. After waiting in line to get something to eat I went and sat on a couch to pass the time before my next class. Sitting directly across from me was none other than Mark Few. He was reading the local newspaper and enjoying a cup of tea. For the 10-15 minutes he was there, nobody bothered him, asked for his autograph, or tried to explain why running a 2-3 defense would help the team. I don’t think the constant questioning and demand for time that the head coach at schools like Indiana or Kentucky has to deal with is appealing to Mark Few in anyway.

As you mentioned, the experience of Dan Monson also has had some sort of impact. I think Few learned that money doesn’t buy happiness or experience. Could he make more money at another school? Of course he could, but the pressure and expectations that he would have to deal with ruins the appeal of more dollar signs.

ITH: The three Zags getting the most attention seem to be Josh Heytvelt, Austin Daye and Micah Downs. Which of these three guys is the most indispensable and why?

TKR: This is a great question, and one that is very difficult to answer. Each one of the guys you mentioned brings so much to the table, and of course Gonzaga also has Jeremy Pargo, who is one of the top PG’s in the country. Of the group you mentioned, Heytvelt would have to be considered the most indispensable. While this team has Ira Brown and Robert Sacre to provide depth in the frontcourt, neither of the two mentioned can take over a game like Josh can. A great example of this is the Maryland game in the Old Spice Classic, when Josh scored 22 points and grabbed nine rebounds. We have no other player with his size and strength who is capable of dominating a game like that. Austin is certainly one of the more talented scorers in the country, but his game is more perimeter based. When Josh is healthy and focused, he can be one of the top post players in the country.

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