Donovan Dent, a highly touted point guard, stunned the college basketball world by pledging to LSU rather than Gonzaga, a move that leaves the Bulldogs without a proven floor‑general after the unexpected departure of Mario Saint‑Supery. The decision follows a five‑year lawsuit that forced Dent to reconsider his retirement plans, adding a legal twist to his recruitment saga.
Roster reshuffles at Gonzaga
With Javon Bennett declared ineligible and Nathan de Sousa still awaiting NCAA clearance, Gonzaga’s backcourt now hinges on Xaivian Lee, a fifth‑year guard who transferred from Florida and has begun to showcase improved three‑point shooting in the latter half of the season, averaging 11.6 points and 4.2 assists in the SEC.
Lee’s recent surge, coupled with his 12‑point, 10‑assist performance against Gonzaga in a 72‑82 loss the previous year, positions him as the leading candidate to fill the void left by Dent’s exit. His growth mirrors the Bulldogs’ need for a steady hand as they prepare for a high‑stakes matchup.
The Bulldogs will face LSU at Spokane Arena on November 14, 2026, a date that promises to test both teams’ early‑season chemistry. The game could prove pivotal for Gonzaga’s quest to rebuild its guard depth while LSU looks to capitalize on Dent’s arrival.