The Pac-12 landed a whale in its realignment rush this week when Gonzaga agreed to join as a non-football member. The Zags have been to the NCAA Tournament for 25 years, the Sweet 16 for the last nine, and two Final Fours in the last decade. They dramatically boost the hoops profile of the reimagined conference.

On this episode of the Oregon Sports podcast, columnist Bill Oram and KOIN’s Brenna Greene — and Gonzaga alum — answer the question of why this was the right move for Zags now.

Also discussed on this week’s episode:

• Where the Pac-12 turns next, and if Gonzaga’s arrival might lure back some schools that already said no

• Brenna’s takeaways from Trail Blazers’ media day, including a failed attempt at humor from Scoot Henderson

• The Blazers roster construction may make for some hurt feelings. Bill even predicts that one high-paid starter could end up out of the rotation.

• Some parting thoughts on Jonathan Smith’s return to Oregon with the Michigan State Spartans.

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