I wasn’t able to retrieve the specific ESPN article. However, I can still provide insight based on the known narrative surrounding Andrew Nembhard’s influence and Gonzaga’s basketball success.

Andrew Nembhard’s impact on both Gonzaga’s college basketball success and his transition to the NBA has been significant in elevating Gonzaga’s reputation. After transferring to Gonzaga in 2020, Nembhard quickly became a pivotal player for the Bulldogs, helping lead them to the NCAA Tournament finals during the 2020–2021 season. His leadership, on-court vision, and overall basketball IQ solidified Gonzaga’s dominance in college basketball.

In his senior year, Nembhard’s contributions were particularly valuable as he became one of the best passers in the country. His poise under pressure, ability to control the tempo, and consistency as a floor general allowed Gonzaga to maintain their high ranking and competitive edge against other top-tier programs. He averaged over five assists per game and had an incredible assist-to-turnover ratio, showcasing his efficiency and basketball intelligence.

Upon entering the NBA, Nembhard’s immediate success has further validated Gonzaga’s player development. In the league, Nembhard has been praised for his polished skills, particularly as a playmaker. His successful transition to the NBA reflects well on Gonzaga’s ability to prepare players for the professional level. NBA scouts and analysts often highlight how well-prepared Nembhard was when he entered the league, which speaks to the coaching he received at Gonzaga, especially under Coach Mark Few.

Nembhard’s decisive impact in the NBA, including standout performances during his rookie season, adds weight to the argument for ranking Gonzaga highly in the college basketball landscape. His smooth adaptation to the NBA game, along with his ability to contribute meaningfully on both ends of the floor, has showcased Gonzaga’s commitment to developing well-rounded players. The fact that Nembhard has become an essential player in the league further bolsters Gonzaga’s reputation as one of the best programs at preparing athletes for professional success.

Gonzaga’s ability to consistently produce NBA-caliber talent, with Nembhard being one of the latest examples, justifies their high ranking over other programs. It demonstrates that the program’s success is not just about winning games at the college level but also about developing players who can make an immediate impact in the NBA.

The narrative surrounding Nembhard’s career further emphasizes the role of Gonzaga’s coaching staff in refining his skills and helping him mature as a player. This reinforces the idea that Gonzaga’s dominance is not solely due to recruiting high-level talent but also its strong player development system.