Malachi Smith helps Gonzaga reach Elite 8

Malachi Smith, who spent his freshman season at Wright State, is one win away from the FInal Four.

Smith, a 6-foot-4 guard, scored 14 points off the bench to help lead Gonzaga past UCLA 79-76 on Thursday night in the Sweet 16. The Zags will face UConn in the West Region final on Saturday.

ExploreLOOKING BACK: Freshman hopes to live up to his name at Wright State

Smith made the Horizon League’s all-freshman team for the Raiders after averaging 5.4 points per game during the 2018-19 season.

He transferred to Chattanooga after his freshman season and was the Southern Conference Payer of the Year in 2021-2022. He left Chattanooga for Gonzaga and this season was named the West Coast Conference sixth man of the year.

Drew Timme postgame asked the media to ask Malachi Smith questions.

Later on Smith: "For Malachi to be a POY in his conference and come off the bench, I think it's a true testament to his character... His selflessness is so huge for this team. We wouldn't be here without him." pic.twitter.com/h0MvY9tgQJ
— Brenna Greene (@BrennaGreene_) March 24, 2023

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John Boyle

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Former Wright State player Malachi Smith helps Gonzaga into Elite 8