The Gonzaga Bulldogs and Georgia Bulldogs are set to meet in a highly anticipated first-round game of the 2025 NCAA Tournament on Thursday, March 20, 2025. The matchup is slated for 4:35 p.m. ET at the INTRUST Bank Arena in Wichita, Kansas, promising an exciting battle as both teams vie for advancement in a tournament known for its unpredictability and thrill.
The Gonzaga Bulldogs (25-8), seeded eighth, are coming off a victorious campaign in the West Coast Conference Tournament where they overcame a difficult season, notably losing both regular-season encounters against rival Saint Mary's. However, the Zags rallied to clinch the conference title with a gritty 58-51 victory that showcased their defensive prowess when it mattered most. Under the leadership of head coach Mark Few, Gonzaga aims to reestablish itself as a force to be reckoned with this March.
On the opposing side, the Georgia Bulldogs (20-12) are returning to the NCAA Tournament after a decade-long absence, making this a significant moment for the program and its fans. This season has been a rollercoaster ride for Georgia, which initially struggled with a difficult 2-9 record in the Southeastern Conference. Yet, sparked by a crucial victory over Florida, Georgia found its footing, closing the season with a four-game winning streak that breathed life back into their tournament aspirations despite an early exit in the SEC Tournament after a loss to Oklahoma.
Both teams head into this contest with momentum, albeit from different trajectories. Graham Ike has emerged as a standout player for Gonzaga, averaging 17.1 points and 7.5 rebounds per game, while point guard Ryan Nembhard has been a key playmaker, delivering 9.8 assists and contributing 10.8 points per contest. Nembhard also leads the team in steals, demonstrating their defensive tenacity.
Georgia, on the other hand, relies heavily on Asa Newell, who has posted an average of 15.3 points and 6.8 rebounds per game this season. Silas Demary Jr. is another player to watch, assigned with leading the backcourt and averaging a solid 13.4 points along with 3.1 assists. His shooting finesse from beyond the arc, where he sinks 1.8 three-pointers per game, adds significant value to the Bulldogs' offensive threat.
This matchup not only offers a chance for redemption for Gonzaga but also a fresh opportunity for Georgia to showcase its resurgence under coach Mike White, who has ushered the team back into the mix after a long absence from the tournament scene. “Georgia earned the 9-seed and are returning to the March Madness field for the first time since 2015,” noted one sports journalist, emphasizing the significance of this game for both student-athletes and the fans alike.
The stakes are high for both teams as they hit the hardwood with a coveted spot in the next round of the tournament at stake. Gonzaga’s seasoned players will be looking to capitalize on their experience in tournament play, while Georgia, in their first appearance since 2015, will aim to establish their momentum and prove they belong among the NCAA elite.
As anticipation builds for the game, fans can catch all the action live on TBS, with streaming available through DirecTV Stream and SLING TV, ensuring that no one misses this critical showdown. Whether you’re a die-hard Gonzaga supporter or cheering for the Georgia Bulldogs, this game promises intense competition and thrilling basketball as both teams strive to advance in the NCAA Tournament.
As the tips-off time approaches, observers are buzzing with excitement over what could be a defining moment in the season for both programs. Expect a thrilling game filled with emotion, skill, and the drive to succeed as March Madness 2025 officially commences.
