Gonzaga Bulldogs: Who will be the 3rd guard if Mark Few uses a three guard rotation?
Teresa Powe
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Gonzaga Bulldogs Coach Mark Few has successfully used three guards in his starting lineup many times. However, he will have to choose between several players who could be breakout stars this season.
In deciding who will be in the Gonzaga Bulldogs‘ three-guard rotation, Gonzaga Bulldogs Head Coach Few will have some hard decisions to make. Sharpshooter Rasir Bolton is locked into one of the spots. That leaves two jobs open.
Few has to choose between some very talented players. First is Nolan Hickman, the player he groomed to take Andrew Nembhard’s place at the point. Then there is his newly acquired transfer star Malachi Smith from Tennessee-Chattanooga.
Next is Hunter Sallis, whose athleticism last season was like a B-12 shot in the arm when Nembhard, Bolton, or Julian Strawther needed a break. Finally, there is GU’s forgotten man, Dominick Harris. He sat out the 2021-22 season due to a foot injury and is eager to showcase his vast skill set.
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Nolan Hickman
6’2″, 180-pounds, Sophomore
Hickman is the one who has been touted as next in line for a Zags starting position. He’s a contender to start even if Few goes with a two guard lineup.
He can consider the last two years in Spokane as a mixed blessing. While Hickman didn’t play as much as he would have liked, the young guard learned from a pair of greats, Jalen Suggs and Andrew Nembhard.
As with many Gonzaga Bulldogs players, Hickman has NBA-level talent. He has a keen knowledge of the game, which makes him a top replacement for Andrew Nembhard.
Even as a backup last season, Hickman put up some good numbers. He played in every game, averaging 17.2 minutes and 5.1 points with a .444 shooting percentage.