Domantas Sabonis experienced a memorable evening at Gonzaga University as he returned to the McCarthey Athletic Center. His visit broke the norm as he arrived not to score points but to secure his legacy. With his family, pals, and ex-coach Mark Few by his side, he took pleasure in seeing his No. 11 jersey ascend to the rafters. Sabonis will join John Stockton in the rafters.

Gonzaga’s all-time leader in field goal percentage, Sabonis stood tall after being awarded NBA Western Conference Player of the Week. However, the ceremony wasn’t all about stats. The focus was on one player’s journey–great in college, then a three-time NBA All-Star–to be honored. It was a moment for fans to think back on his Gonzaga days. The man who shaped his career had a chance to relive his memories. His story read like one from the ages, from a star athlete in his formative days to one of the NBA’s most reliable big men.

Why Gonzaga will always love Domantas Sabonis?

He did more than suit up for Gonzaga; he transformed the Bulldog identity. Playing between 2014 and 2016, his presence on the court was massive. Across 74 games, he accumulated 1,002 points and 694 rebounds, cementing his dominance. In his second year, he posted outstanding averages of 17.6 points and 11.8 rebounds per game, with a remarkable .611 field goal percentage. His consistency and impact in both seasons made him a cornerstone of Gonzaga’s success.

But it wasn’t just about numbers. Sabonis had a relentless drive. His 23 double-doubles in a single season? Pure determination. He carried Gonzaga to the Sweet 16 in 2016, and every step of the way, his passion for the game shone through.

The No. 11 jersey has a special meaning to Sabonis. It’s the number his father, NBA Hall of Famer Arvydas Sabonis, wore with pride during his time in the league. Domantas switched back to No. 11 for the Sacramento Kings last year. 

 

Having worn that number tonight at Gonzaga and seeing it retired, that connection emerged as a truly emotional affair.

From college star to NBA superstar

A pivotal player for the Sacramento Kings, Sabonis has been on the up since his Gonzaga days, figuring out the terrain in the NBA after being gathered up as the 11th pick in the 2016 draft. He has been undeniably influential in basketball with three All-Star selections (the only Giants player to get the nod three times), two All-NBA team selections, and two consecutive rebounding titles. But Sabonis isn’t just about stats or accolades, he’s a team player and a fan favorite.

Those ties are still strong, and he learned the importance of relationships at Gonzaga. Former Gonzaga staff member Ricky Fois, now a Kings assistant, joined the celebration. This kind of moment shows how deep down Sabonis’ roots run.The jersey on display at the McCarthey Athletic Center tells a story. It is a testament to his passion for basketball, his dedication, and his modesty. He isn’t just a pro player to the Gonzaga community; he is one of their own. Sabonis’ journey is proof that greatness starts with passion and dedication. From dominating college courts to leading the Kings, he’s shown what’s possible when talent meets heart. His jersey retirement isn’t just a Gonzaga milestone. It’s a celebration of everything Domantas Sabonis stands for—on and off the court.