Tyon Grant-Foster’s clutch overtime performance led No. 7 Gonzaga to an 80-72 victory over Seattle, showcasing resilience and turning a halftime deficit into a dramatic win in Spokane.
Spokane, Wash. — In a game that tested grit, timing, and clutch execution, Tyon Grant-Foster emerged as the unlikely hero for No. 7 Gonzaga, scoring three consecutive baskets in overtime to give the Bulldogs their first lead since early in the first half. His decisive performance helped Gonzaga rally past Seattle, 80-72, in a thrilling matchup that marked the first meeting between the cross-state programs since 1980.
Braden Huff led the way with 28 points, while Graham Ike added 24 points and 10 rebounds. The Bulldogs, who entered the game averaging 93 points per game — 12th most in the country — struggled offensively for much of the night, trailing by as many as 13 points in the second half. Despite the deficit, Gonzaga showed resilience, closing the gap over the final eight minutes of regulation and forcing overtime with a tied score at 65-all.
Grant-Foster, who finished with 19 points, delivered the game’s most pivotal moments in overtime. His layup with 2:25 remaining gave Gonzaga its first lead since the opening minutes of the first half. He followed it with two more buckets, extending the lead to six points and securing the win. His performance was a masterclass in composure under pressure, transforming a game that seemed destined for a Seattle upset into a statement victory for Gonzaga.
Seattle, which entered the game with a 12-4 record and its best start since rejoining Division I in 2008, was led by Brayden Maldonado’s 17 points. The Redhawks, in their first season as a member of the West Coast Conference, held a 37-29 halftime lead — only the second time this season Gonzaga had trailed at the break. Yeo Junseok, a former Gonzaga player, hit two 3-pointers to extend Seattle’s lead to 52-39, but Gonzaga’s methodical comeback proved too much for the Redhawks to overcome.
The game’s momentum shifted dramatically in the final minutes of regulation. Braeden Smith’s two free throws tied the score at 65-all with 20 seconds left, and Maldonado’s missed 3-point attempt at the buzzer sealed the fate of the Redhawks. Gonzaga’s defense held firm, and their ability to convert key moments in overtime was the difference-maker.
For Gonzaga, the win extends their winning streak to eight games since being blown out by No. 2 Michigan in the Players Era Festival in late November. The victory also solidifies their position as a top contender in the West Coast Conference, with a 3-0 record in conference play. Seattle, meanwhile, remains in the mix for the conference’s top seed but now faces a challenging road ahead, with their next game against Saint Mary’s on Sunday.
The Bulldogs’ next matchup is against Loyola Marymount, a team that has struggled defensively this season. Gonzaga’s ability to thrive under pressure — especially in clutch moments — will be tested again, but the confidence gained from this win against a formidable opponent will be invaluable.
Grant-Foster’s performance in overtime was not just a personal triumph but a team effort. His teammates, including Adam Miller and Graham Ike, provided crucial support, drawing fouls and creating space for him to make the plays that mattered. The win also underscores Gonzaga’s depth and resilience, as they continue to prove they can overcome adversity and deliver when it matters most.
For fans, this game was a reminder of why Gonzaga remains one of the most exciting teams in college basketball. The drama, the comeback, and the clutch execution from Grant-Foster created a night that will be remembered for years to come. The Bulldogs are not just playing for wins — they are playing for legacy, and this victory is a step toward that goal.
As the season progresses, Gonzaga’s ability to maintain this level of performance — especially in high-stakes matchups — will be critical. With Grant-Foster emerging as a clutch performer and the team’s depth proving invaluable, the Bulldogs are positioned to make a deep run in the NCAA tournament. For now, they celebrate a hard-fought win over a talented Seattle squad — and the fans are already looking ahead to what’s next.
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