College basketball is a whirlwind of change, but some things remain rock solid. Gonzaga’s Rjay Barsh shares profound insights into the Bulldogs’ enduring success, his unique recruiting style, and how Coach Few cultivates a winning culture amidst constant upheaval. What’s the secret sauce keeping Gonzaga at the pinnacle of the sport?
In the whirlwind of modern college athletics, characterized by constant rule changes, the dynamic transfer portal, NIL deals reshaping rosters, and conference realignments dismantling historic rivalries, the presence of stability becomes a rare and cherished commodity. Amidst this perpetual flux, the consistent success of programs like Gonzaga stands as a testament to foundational strength and unwavering dedication.
A significant pillar of this continuity is assistant coach Rjay Barsh, now entering his third season with the Bulldogs. His sustained presence alongside seasoned colleagues like Stephen Gentry (fifth year) and Brian Michaelson (13th year), under the venerable leadership of Coach Mark Few (27th year), undeniably contributes to Gonzaga Basketball’s perennial excellence, even as the landscape of College Hoops undergoes unprecedented transformations.
Barsh recently shared his insights with Gonzaga Bulldogs On SI, reflecting on his two years in Spokane and how it has quickly felt like home. He highlighted the unique sense of community support that envelops the team, describing it as an inclusive journey rather than a transactional pursuit of wins and losses. This deep-seated connection with fans, from casual greetings at the grocery store to unwavering support through highs and lows, fosters a special environment that Barsh cherishes.
Central to Barsh’s coaching philosophy is a profound emphasis on Player Development and maximizing the extensive resources available within the Gonzaga organization. He encourages his athletes to fully leverage the high basketball IQ of the entire staff, from coaches to managers, stressing that such comprehensive support for skill refinement and strategic understanding was a luxury he never had during his own formative years. This proactive approach ensures players are well-equipped to thrive.
His approach to NCAA Recruiting further distinguishes the program. Barsh firmly believes in authenticity, stating that remaining true to himself prevents the “transactional” nature of modern recruiting from dictating his methods. He prioritizes finding “mission fits” and “program fits” – families and players who align with Gonzaga’s values and coaching style, fostering genuine relationships that extend beyond the initial commitment.
Gonzaga’s ability to attract elite young men from strong families, all driven by high aspirations, is a hallmark of the program. Barsh emphasizes that playing under Coach Few and the dedicated staff instills an unparalleled work ethic and commitment to continuous development. For these athletes, the NBA is not merely a finish line but a stepping stone, preparing them to maximize resources and maintain high character within professional organizations—a crucial trait for GMs evaluating talent.
Despite the annual changes in roster composition, the core message at Gonzaga remains consistent: win. Barsh notes that returning players, such as Graham Ike, are instrumental in vocalizing the team’s collective goals for the upcoming season. While new players join the fold, the team’s identity remains steadfast, characterized by a hard-to-defend playing style and the addition of longer, more athletic individuals to enhance defensive prowess.
Coach Few’s subtle yet impactful leadership, particularly his one-on-one interactions with players off the court, creates deep emotional relationships that prove invaluable during high-pressure games. Barsh credits Few for equipping his assistants to handle X’s and O’s, but it’s the personal connections—whether at the lake or playing pickleball—that forge unbreakable bonds, enabling Few to instinctively “push buttons” during critical moments, a skill unique to a head coach of his caliber.
Ultimately, Coach Few cultivates an environment where the entire organization “enjoys the work.” Barsh explains that this intense focus on the process – the details of preparation, scouting, and strategic breakdown – effectively “hijacks your mind” and keeps everyone present, thereby shielding them from external pressures and the constant noise of expectations. This relentless pursuit of excellence, coupled with an inherent competitive drive, defines Gonzaga’s unwavering quest for a national championship.
