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Gonzaga legend Chet Holmgren and Andrew Nembhard Shine at decisive NBA playoff

Gonzaga legend Chet Holmgren and Andrew Nembhard Shine at decisive NBA playoff

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For Gonzaga fans, last night was a proud moment when two former Bulldogs Clutch appearances delivered on the largest stage in the NBA. Chet Holmgren and Andrew Nembhard, once teammates in Spokane, presented their talents with decisive playoff victories and each helped bring their respective teams closer to a shot at the NBA final.

In the semi-finals of the Western Conference, Holmgren's Oklahoma City Thunder claimed a critical 3-2 lead over the defending champion Denver Nuggets with a coarse-grained 105: 98 victory. Holmgren looked at the discouraging task of working with the two-time MVP Nikola Jokic, and again proved that he should be in the conversation with the elite Big men of the game. The former No. 2 picks scored 14 points, eight rebounds and a template that claims against the Nuggets superstar.

While Jokic was still filling the stat leaf, Holmgrens length and mobility disturbed the rhythm of Denver and allowed OKC to control the pace on the track. His ability to aggressively stretch the soil and to change the shots defensively was significantly involved in the late game of the thunder. For Gonzaga fans, it is proof of the foundation that has developed into a two-way force at the highest level during its time.

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In the Eastern Conference, Andrew Nembhard continues to prove one of the most underestimated point guards in the NBA. The Indiana Pacers secured a decisive victory in game 5 against the Cleveland Cavaliers and moved within a series of an NBA final appearance. Nembhard was the heart of Indiana's effort, orchestrated the crime with attitude and precision and collected 18 points, six templates and three rebounds.

Its constant hand when the ground enabled the pacers to dictate pace and keep the cavs on the heels all night. Although his statistics were modest, Nembhard's leadership, defensive persistence and the ability to create for his teammates were of crucial importance for the success of the Pacers. From Spokane to Indianapolis, his development from a Cerebral College Guard to an NBA playoff catalyst was remarkable.

For Gonzaga believers, it is a source of immense pride, Holmgren and Nembhard to see in these pressure-packed moments. Their trips illustrate the player development of the ZAGs and the growing legacy of the program to produce NBA-capable talents. If your teams are closer to the final, Zag Nation will watch a step of the way – and cheer -.

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