USA Today via Reuters
Apr 5, 2021; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Gonzaga Bulldogs forward Corey Kispert (24) looks to pass the ball as Baylor Bears guard Mark Vital (11) defends in the first half during the national championship game in the Final Four of the 2021 NCAA Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
USA Today via Reuters
Apr 5, 2021; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Gonzaga Bulldogs forward Corey Kispert (24) looks to pass the ball as Baylor Bears guard Mark Vital (11) defends in the first half during the national championship game in the Final Four of the 2021 NCAA Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
The Gonzaga Bulldogs had a historic run this year. While they would have preferred to have it immortalized by winning the Championship, getting one game within an undefeated season is mightily impressive. With their top stars expected to be easy first-round picks, it would be ludicrous to think they would return for one more season.
However, among the rumors of Drew Timme choosing to stay back for one more year, people are wondering the same about Corey Kispert. Kispert is a senior, but NCAA rules on this season would allow him to play for one more season. But will he take the opportunity? Gary Parrish says no.
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“There is no reason to think he’s going to come back. This is a young man who’s accomplished just about everything you can at the collegiate level. Apart from winning a national championship. He’s a projected top-20 pick according to most. There’s literally millions of dollars waiting for him. I’ll be shocked if Corey Kispert isn’t in the NBA draft and be a first-round pick to sign a contract worth millions of dollars.”
Gonzaga Bulldogs: Can they somehow keep their core together?
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While Jalen Suggs is definitely on his way to the NBA, there are questions about the others. Timme is all but expected to stay back for one more year, where he could make a run for National Player of the Year. Similarly, the team that they have built for next season is good.
USA Today via Reuters
Mar 9, 2021; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Gonzaga Bulldogs forward Corey Kispert (24), guard Julian Strawther (0), guard Jalen Suggs (1) and forward Drew Timme (2) celebrate after defeating the the BYU Cougars in the West Coast Conference Tournament championship game at Orleans Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
They have top recruits in Chet Holmgren, and Hunter Sallis already committed for next season. While they may be leaving after one season, having them now would help the team. Kispert’s chances of staying are pretty slim. If he was a junior or a sophomore, it would still be more plausible. But after completing graduation, when he can make millions in his first NBA contract? It is unlikely.
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READ MORE: Can Hunter Sallis Replace Jalen Suggs As Gonzaga Bulldogs’ Star Guard?
The Bulldogs already look like pre-season favorites for the next season. With Timme returning and the new recruits joining, the Bulldogs may be looking to achieve their title dreams next season. But we will have to wait and see if they find chemistry on the court.
