The Gonzaga Bulldogs have unveiled their roster for the 2026-27 season ahead of the college basketball season, which begins shortly with an exhibition game against Arkansas in less than a month. The updated roster features 11 newcomers and four returning players, amidst ongoing uncertainty regarding the eligibility of several key athletes.
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Among the roster announcements, four players—international big man Izan Almansa and fifth-year senior transfers Xaivian Lee (Florida), Chauncey Wiggins (Florida State), and Javon Bennett (Dayton)—are currently in eligibility limbo with the NCAA. Of these four, only Lee has confirmed eligibility as he benefits from a temporary restraining order granted in California.
Almansa, a 21-year-old forward from Spain, is awaiting clearance from the NCAA due to his previous professional experience. He played for the G-League Ignite and the NBL's Perth Wildcats before returning to Spain to play for Real Madrid after declaring for the 2025 NBA draft. His situation remains uncertain as the NCAA has increased scrutiny on international players transitioning to college basketball.
The status of Bennett and Wiggins has also been complicated by ongoing legal challenges, with their lawsuits currently stayed, leaving them ineligible until further rulings are made. This uncertainty is not unusual, as teams often list fifth-year seniors even when their eligibility is unresolved.
Gonzaga has maintained the jersey numbers for its returners, with Braden Huff (32), Davis Fogle (4), Parker Jefferson (32), and Alonzo Metz (14) keeping their previous numbers. Newcomers have selected various numbers, including Luca Foster (0), Juwan Ekanga (3), Nathan de Sousa (7), Izan Almansa (13), and Carter Nilson (30).
The Bulldogs have bolstered their roster size by adding two seven-foot players, Massamba Diop (7'1, 245) and Sam Funches (7'0, 238), alongside Wiggins at 6'11. Other players include Bennett, the shortest at 5'10, and de Sousa and Lee, who both exceed average height for their position.
Fans will get their first look at the roster during Kraziness in the Kennel, scheduled for October 3 at 2:00 PM PT.