The Spokane Arena buzzed with energy as No. 19 Gonzaga Bulldogs showcased their dominance in an 81-50 victory over the Portland Pilots during the Community Cancer Fund Classic. The game drew a crowd of 9,022 fans, united by their passion for basketball and a shared mission to support the fight against cancer.
A Commanding Performance
Gonzaga’s victory was fueled by a balanced team effort, underscoring why they are one of the top teams in the nation. Ryan Nembhard set the tone, contributing 10 points and dishing out an impressive nine assists. His leadership on the court was pivotal in orchestrating the Bulldogs’ high-octane offense.
Dusty Stromer delivered a stellar performance, scoring 12 points with a mix of outside shooting and drives to the basket. Meanwhile, Braden Huff added 10 points, showcasing his versatility in the paint and beyond. Michael Ajayi was a force on the boards, pulling down an astounding 15 rebounds to control the glass and give Gonzaga a decisive edge in second-chance opportunities.
A Night to Remember
The second-annual Community Cancer Fund Classic is more than a basketball game; it’s a night to celebrate hope and resilience. This event not only highlights the talents of Gonzaga’s basketball program but also raises critical funds and awareness for Community Cancer Fund’s mission to fight cancer in the Inland Northwest.
“We’re grateful for the opportunity to partner with Gonzaga and bring together our community for such an impactful event,” said Executive Director Jon Neill. “Seeing the support in the stands tonight reminds us of the incredible power of teamwork—both on and off the court.”
Looking Ahead
With the win, Gonzaga improves to 11-4 on the season and 2-0 in West Coast Conference play. As the Bulldogs continue their march through the season, their focus remains on growing as a team and building momentum for another deep postseason run.
For the Pilots, the game provided a valuable learning experience as they look to regroup and rebound in their next conference matchup.
About Community Cancer Fund
Community Cancer Fund is dedicated to fighting cancer at the local level, supporting patients, families, and research initiatives across the Inland Northwest. Through events like the Community Cancer Fund Classic, the organization brings people together to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by cancer.
Join the Fight
To learn more about Community Cancer Fund and how you can get involved, visit www.communitycancerfund.org.
Thank you to everyone who attended and supported this year’s game. Together, we’re making strides in the battle against cancer—one event, one game, one victory at a time.