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Gonzaga Setting up Crucial Visit with Five-Star Center Sam Funches as Recruitment Heats Up

Gonzaga's recruitment of elite 2026 center Sam Funches is quietly heating up, with the promise of an upcoming visit to Spokane poised to be a make-or-break moment in the Bulldogs' pursuit. While programs like Ole Miss and Kansas have long been seen as leaders in his recruitment, Gonzaga has remained firmly in the picture, and now has a golden opportunity to elevate itself from an outsider to a legitimate threat. Funches, a 6-foot-10 standout from Germantown High School in Madison, Mississippi, is regarded as one of the premier big men in the 2026 class. His rare combination of size, mobility, and perimeter shooting has attracted interest from national powerhouses. Gonzaga officially entered the race with an offer last spring, adding their name to a growing list of suitors. Gonzaga really has a chance to gain ground if Funches's visit actually happens. The trip will allow Funches and his family to get an up-close look at the Zags' player development, campus environment, and unique basketball culture. They'll get to sit and talk with Mark Few and hear his plan for Funches on both ends of the court. These factors have played a crucial role in landing and producing elite frontcourt talent over the years. Advertisement Programs like Ole Miss have a head start, with strong ties to Funches and multiple unofficial visits already in the books. However, Gonzaga's history of developing high-level big men such as Domantas Sabonis, Rui Hachimura, and Chet Holmgren speaks volumes. For a player of Funches's skill set, the fit within Gonzaga's offensive system, which emphasizes versatility and skilled bigs, could be an ideal match. While the Bulldogs may still be considered on the outside looking in, this visit represents a pivotal opportunity to shift the perception of where they stand. A successful trip could transform Gonzaga from a fringe contender into a real player for one of the most coveted prospects in the 2026 cycle. As the visit to Spokane approaches, all eyes will be on Mark Few and his staff's ability to capitalize on this crucial window. Related: Why Gonzaga's Offense Should run through Braden Huff Next Season