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GCU Defeats Boise State in Key WAC Showdown

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, January 30th 2026 at 14:58 GMT by AZ Central
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Boise, Idaho - January 30, 2026 - The Grand Canyon University (GCU) men's basketball team demonstrated resilience and solidified their position as a Western Athletic Conference (WAC) championship contender with a decisive 76-63 victory over Boise State on Wednesday night. The win, earned on the road against a competitive opponent, marks a crucial rebound following a recent setback and underscores the team's growing maturity.

The Lopes, now boasting a 14-5 overall record and a 6-3 standing in WAC play, were led by a dominant performance from forward Collin Moore, who recorded a double-double with 18 points and 11 rebounds. Point guard Chance McMillan provided crucial support with 14 points and 5 assists, orchestrating the offense effectively and facilitating scoring opportunities. Boise State, now 10-9 and 4-4 in league play, struggled to contain GCU's balanced attack and disciplined defense.

Coach Bryce Drew emphasized the importance of defensive execution in securing the victory. "Our guys really locked in defensively," Drew stated. "We made them earn every basket." This defensive emphasis has been a hallmark of GCU's success this season, consistently limiting opponents' scoring opportunities and forcing turnovers. The ability to stifle Boise State, a team capable of explosive offense, to just 63 points is a testament to the Lopes' commitment on that end of the court. Analysts are noting a visible improvement in GCU's help rotations and perimeter defense compared to earlier games this season.

The game saw GCU build a steady lead in the first half, capitalizing on strong interior play from Moore and efficient shooting from the perimeter. Moore's 10 first-half points set the tone, allowing the Lopes to enter halftime with a 35-28 advantage. While Boise State attempted to mount a comeback in the second half, GCU responded with increased intensity and a more aggressive offensive approach, spearheaded by McMillan's 8 second-half points. The Lopes consistently answered Boise State's runs, maintaining a comfortable lead throughout the final 20 minutes.

This victory isn't simply another win on the schedule; it represents a significant step forward for the GCU program. The team has consistently demonstrated the ability to win on the road, a crucial attribute for any team aspiring to a conference championship. Furthermore, the leadership of players like Moore and McMillan is evident, providing stability and guidance for a relatively young roster. The Lopes are building a reputation as a team that doesn't back down from challenges and consistently performs under pressure.

The WAC is shaping up to be a highly competitive conference this year, with several teams vying for the top spot. GCU's recent performance suggests they are firmly in that mix. However, continued success will require consistent effort, disciplined play, and the ability to overcome adversity. The upcoming matchup against Seattle U on Saturday presents another opportunity for the Lopes to showcase their capabilities and strengthen their position in the conference standings. Seattle U currently sits at 12-6, and a win would give GCU a significant advantage in the race for the top seed in the WAC tournament.

Looking ahead, analysts predict that GCU's success hinges on maintaining their current level of play and avoiding injuries to key players. The team's depth is being tested, and the emergence of role players will be crucial as the season progresses. Furthermore, continued development of their three-point shooting could elevate their offense to another level. The program's trajectory is undeniably upward, and fans are optimistic about their chances of making a deep run in the NCAA tournament. With a strong coaching staff, talented players, and a dedicated fanbase, the future looks bright for GCU men's basketball.