Mark Few is a name synonymous with college basketball excellence. As the head coach of the Gonzaga Bulldogs since 1999, Few has transformed the program into a national powerhouse. His journey from a young basketball fan to a celebrated coach is a remarkable story of dedication, skill, and strategic acumen. This article will delve deep into Few’s coaching career, his impact on Gonzaga, and the broader context of college basketball in the USA.
The Early Years: Mark Few’s Background
Mark Few was born on December 27, 1962, in Creswell, Oregon. Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, Few developed an early love for basketball. He played for his high school team and showed promise, eventually playing at the University of Oregon for a brief stint before transferring to the University of Portland.
College Career and Influences
During his time at the University of Portland, Few played under the tutelage of coach Clifford “Cliff” Dwyer. This experience laid the groundwork for his coaching philosophy. After earning his degree in physical education, Few began his coaching journey.
Early Coaching Roles
Few’s coaching career began as an assistant coach at the University of Portland, followed by a stint at Gonzaga as an assistant under head coach Dan Fitzgerald. His time at Gonzaga set the stage for what would become a legendary career.
The Gonzaga Bulldogs: A New Era
Few took over as head coach of the Gonzaga Bulldogs in 1999, inheriting a program that was on the rise but not yet a household name in college basketball.
Building a Winning Culture
From the start, Few focused on building a winning culture rooted in teamwork, discipline, and a strong work ethic. His approach has helped Gonzaga sustain success, reaching the NCAA tournament consistently.
Coaching Philosophy and Strategies
Mark Few’s coaching philosophy is a blend of offensive creativity and defensive discipline. His teams are known for their efficient ball movement and unselfish play.
Offensive Strategies
Few emphasizes the importance of spacing and ball movement. His offensive sets often involve multiple screens and quick passing to create open shots.
Defensive Approach
Defensively, Few employs a combination of man-to-man and zone defenses, adapting based on the opponent’s strengths. His teams are known for being gritty and tenacious on the defensive end.
Milestones and Achievements
Mark Few’s tenure at Gonzaga is marked by numerous milestones and achievements that highlight his impact on the program.
Regular Season Success
| Season | Record | WCC Titles | NCAA Tournament Appearances |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1999-2000 | 23-10 | 1 | 1 |
| 2016-2017 | 37-1 | 1 | 1 |
| 2020-2021 | 31-0 | 1 | 1 |
NCAA Tournament Success
Few has led Gonzaga to the NCAA tournament 22 times, with several deep runs culminating in the team’s first trip to the national championship game in 2017. The Bulldogs finished the 2020-2021 season as a perfect 31-0, showcasing Few’s ability to prepare his team for high-stakes situations.
Impact on Gonzaga and College Basketball
Under Few’s leadership, Gonzaga has become a beacon of excellence in college basketball. His influence extends beyond the court, as he emphasizes the importance of academic success and character development for his players.
Developing NBA Talent
Few has played a pivotal role in developing players who have gone on to successful NBA careers. Notable alumni include Kelly Olynyk, Jeremy Pargo, and Adam Morrison. Under Few, players not only improve their skills but also learn valuable life lessons that extend beyond basketball.
Challenges and Criticisms
Despite his success, Few has faced challenges and criticisms throughout his career. Some critics argue that Gonzaga’s conference, the West Coast Conference (WCC), does not provide a sufficient level of competition compared to power conferences.
Pros and Cons of Coaching at Gonzaga
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Consistent NCAA tournament appearances | Criticism of conference strength |
| Ability to develop NBA talent | Pressure to win at the national level |
| Strong community support | Recruiting challenges against bigger programs |
Mark Few’s Influence Beyond Gonzaga
Mark Few’s influence extends beyond the confines of Gonzaga University. He is a respected figure in coaching circles and has been involved in various charity initiatives.
Coaching Clinics and Mentorship
Few often speaks at coaching clinics and seminars, sharing his insights on player development and team dynamics. His willingness to mentor young coaches contributes to his legacy in the sport.
Community Involvement
Few is also deeply committed to the Spokane community. He has participated in numerous charitable events and fundraisers, making a positive impact on the lives of many.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Mark Few
Mark Few’s career is a testament to the power of dedication, hard work, and a clear vision. His impact on Gonzaga basketball is undeniable, and his influence on players and the wider basketball community is profound. As he continues to lead the Bulldogs, Few remains a pivotal figure in the landscape of college basketball.
FAQs about Mark Few and Gonzaga Basketball
What is Mark Few’s coaching record at Gonzaga?
As of the end of the 2022 season, Mark Few boasts an impressive coaching record of over 600 wins with only a handful of losses, making him one of the most successful coaches in NCAA history.
How many NCAA tournaments has Gonzaga participated in under Mark Few?
Gonzaga has participated in the NCAA tournament 22 times since Mark Few took over as head coach in 1999.
Has Mark Few coached any NBA players?
Yes, several players developed under Few have made it to the NBA, including Kelly Olynyk, Jeremy Pargo, and Adam Morrison.
What is Gonzaga’s standing in college basketball today?
Gonzaga is consistently ranked among the top college basketball programs, known for its competitive play and annual tournament appearances.
What makes Mark Few a great coach?
Mark Few’s success can be attributed to his commitment to player development, innovative coaching strategies, and ability to build a strong team culture.
For further reading, consider exploring the NCAA website for detailed statistics and reports related to Gonzaga basketball. You may find useful information in this NCAA men’s basketball scoreboard.