Domantas Sabonis Transformed Gonzaga Basketball-Mark Few Explains How

**Domantas Sabonis didn’t just play for Gonzaga-he rewrote how the program operates.** In an interview with MSN, Mark Few, the coach who built the Zags into a national powerhouse, called Sabonis the architect of a cultural and tactical shift that still defines Gonzaga’s identity. Few’s remarks underscore how the 7’1” Lithuanian center, now a key NBA player, altered the Zags’ approach to the game long before his NBA stardom.

Few’s comments focus on two areas: **offensive philosophy** and **team culture**. The Zags had long relied on a methodical, half-court system, but Sabonis-with his size, footwork, and unselfish passing-forced a rewrite. “He made us play faster, more aggressively,” Few said. “His presence changed everything about how we attacked defenses.”

Before Sabonis, Gonzaga’s offense was a study in precision: pick-and-rolls, methodical cuts, and a focus on efficiency. But the Lithuanian center arrived in 2014 and demanded more. Few recalled how Sabonis’ ability to **post up smaller guards** and **initiate offense** from the high post disrupted opposing schemes. The Zags’ scoring average jumped by **10 points per game** during his tenure, a shift Few attributes directly to Sabonis’ influence.

Few’s praise ties back to Sabonis’ NBA journey. His college game-marked by **double-doubles in nearly every season** and a **2015 Final Four run**-set the template for his pro career. Teams now scout him not just for his scoring but for his **playmaking (6.5 assists per game in 2025-26)** and ability to dictate tempo, traits Few helped cultivate. “He didn’t just fit our system,” Few said. “He made us fit his.”

Sabonis’ NBA trajectory-from Indiana Pacers rookie to Sacramento Kings star-owes much to the foundation Few helped build. The Kings’ front office has cited his **college-era versatility** as a reason for his rapid development. Few’s interview serves as a reminder: Sabonis’ greatest asset isn’t just his skill, but the **adaptability** Few’s Gonzaga instilled in him. As the 2026-27 season approaches, his ability to **translate college innovations into NBA dominance** will be the next test.