Izan Almansa, a 6-10 forward who has been turning heads in Europe and the United States, announced that he will wear a Gonzaga jersey beginning in the 2026-27 academic year. The commitment marks the latest step in a career that has spanned three continents and several professional leagues.
Almansa’s path to the Pacific Northwest has been anything but conventional. After stints with Real Madrid’s senior squad and the Overtime Elite development circuit, he spent a season with the G League Ignite, where he averaged 10.5 points and 7.2 rebounds per game. The following year he earned a spot on the Philadelphia 76ers’ summer league roster, logging 4.2 points and 1.8 rebounds across five appearances.
His résumé also includes a championship-contending season with the Perth Wildcats in Australia and a high-profile appearance at the 2024 Rising Stars Challenge during NBA All-Star Weekend. He was later invited to the green room for the 2025 NBA draft, a testament to his rising stock among league evaluators.
Versatility defines Almansa’s game; he can operate at both power forward and center, offering the Bulldogs a flexible option in the paint. At Gonzaga he will join a frontcourt that already features Massamba Diop, Braden Huff, Parker Jefferson and Sam Funches, creating a deep and competitive group.
A new chapter for the Zags' frontcourt
Coach Mark Few has voiced confidence that Almansa’s blend of rebounding, passing and defensive presence will translate well to the NCAA game. If the forward lives up to the projections, he could become a pivotal piece in Gonzaga’s pursuit of another deep tournament run.
The commitment also underscores a broader trend of G-League players opting for the college route, a movement that could reshape talent pipelines for programs like Gonzaga. Almansa’s international background and exposure to NBA competition are expected to enrich the Bulldogs’ on-court dynamics and recruiting narrative.