Gonzaga Bulldogs and San Diego State Aztecs: A Battle for Basketball Supremacy in the Mountain West
A Rivalry Born from Success
The Gonzaga Bulldogs and San Diego State Aztecs have established themselves as two of the most dominant programs in the Mountain West Conference. Their rivalry stems from a shared history of success, thrilling match-ups, and a relentless pursuit of excellence on the court.
Gonzaga, led by legendary coach Mark Few, has consistently ranked among the top teams in the nation. Their success is built upon a foundation of high-scoring offense and stifling defense. The Bulldogs have won 20 or more games in 24 consecutive seasons and have made 23 NCAA Tournament appearances during that span.
The Ascendance of the Aztecs
In recent years, the San Diego State Aztecs have emerged as a formidable challenger to Gonzaga's dominance. Under the leadership of coach Brian Dutcher, the Aztecs have developed a reputation for their physical play and suffocating defense. They have won three Mountain West regular season championships in the past five years and have made it to the NCAA Tournament in seven consecutive seasons.
Key Match-ups and Memorable Moments
The rivalry between Gonzaga and San Diego State has produced several memorable match-ups over the years. In 2019, the Bulldogs prevailed in a thrilling double-overtime victory at the McCarthey Athletic Center. The Aztecs, however, returned the favor the following season, defeating Gonzaga in San Diego by a score of 79-73.
One of the most iconic moments in the rivalry came during the 2021 NCAA Tournament. The two teams met in the Sweet 16, with Gonzaga ultimately advancing to the Elite Eight. The game was a back-and-forth battle that showcased the intensity and competitiveness of the rivalry.
A Rivalry that Transcends Basketball
The rivalry between Gonzaga and San Diego State extends beyond the basketball court. The two schools are located just a short distance apart, and their fans have developed a passionate rivalry that often spills over into other sports and aspects of campus life.
The rivalry has also had a positive impact on both schools. It has helped to elevate the profile of the Mountain West Conference and has inspired both programs to strive for excellence on and off the court.
Conclusion
The rivalry between Gonzaga and San Diego State is one of the most captivating in college basketball. It is a rivalry built on success, competition, and a shared passion for the game. As both programs continue to excel, the rivalry is sure to produce even more memorable moments in the years to come.
