Did Mark Few Play College Basketball?

Mark Few is a name that resonates with basketball fans, particularly those who follow college basketball closely. Known for his exceptional coaching career at Gonzaga University, Few has become synonymous with success in the NCAA. However, many fans often wonder about his playing days and whether he ever laced up his sneakers for a college basketball team. In this article, we will delve into Mark Few's background, including his playing career, coaching accomplishments, and how he has shaped the landscape of college basketball.

To understand the impact of Mark Few in the realm of college basketball, we need to explore his journey from a player to one of the most respected coaches in the sport. His path is not just inspiring for aspiring players and coaches but also for anyone who has a passion for sports. We will cover his early life, his time in college, and the transition that led him to become the head coach at Gonzaga University.

As we navigate through Mark Few's story, we will provide insights into his coaching philosophy, the achievements of his teams, and how he has contributed to elevating Gonzaga's basketball program to national prominence. Join us as we uncover the details of Mark Few's journey in college basketball, both as a player and a coach.

Table of Contents

• Biography of Mark Few
• Early Life and Education
• College Basketball Career
• Beginning of Coaching Career
• Mark Few as Gonzaga Coach
• Coaching Achievements
• Impact on College Basketball
• Conclusion

Biography of Mark Few

Early Life and Education

Mark Few was born in Creswell, Oregon, and grew up in a family that valued sports. From a young age, he showed a keen interest in basketball, which would eventually shape his career. Few attended Creswell High School, where he excelled as a basketball player. His performance on the court caught the attention of college scouts, paving the way for his collegiate journey.

After graduating from high school, Few enrolled at the University of Oregon. However, he transferred to Gonzaga University, where he played for the Gonzaga Bulldogs from 1983 to 1987. Though Few wasn't a standout player in terms of athleticism or scoring, he was known for his basketball IQ and leadership skills. This period was crucial in developing his understanding of the game, which would later influence his coaching style.

College Basketball Career

During his time at Gonzaga, Mark Few played as a guard and contributed to the team's success. Although he did not achieve significant individual accolades, he was part of a Bulldogs team that laid the foundation for the program's future success. Few's experience as a player allowed him to appreciate the intricacies of the game, which he would later translate into his coaching philosophy.

While Few may not have been a star player, his dedication and work ethic did not go unnoticed. He was respected by his teammates and coaches alike for his commitment to the sport and his ability to lead by example.

Beginning of Coaching Career

After graduating from Gonzaga in 1987, Few began his coaching career as an assistant coach at the University of Oregon. He later returned to Gonzaga in 1989 as an assistant coach under head coach Dan Monson. This marked the beginning of a remarkable journey that would eventually lead Few to the helm of the Gonzaga Bulldogs.

In 1999, after Monson left Gonzaga to coach at Minnesota, Few was promoted to head coach. At just 36 years old, he took over a program that was on the rise but had yet to achieve national recognition. Few's experience as a player and assistant coach positioned him well for this new role, and he was ready to make his mark.

Mark Few as Gonzaga Coach

As head coach, Mark Few quickly turned Gonzaga into a powerhouse in college basketball. His coaching style emphasized teamwork, discipline, and a strong defensive foundation. Few instilled a winning culture within the program, and his teams consistently performed at a high level.

Under Few's leadership, Gonzaga made its first NCAA Tournament appearance in 1995, and the program has since become a regular contender. The Bulldogs reached the NCAA Tournament's Sweet 16 multiple times and made it to the Final Four in 2017.

Coaching Achievements

Mark Few's coaching accomplishments are nothing short of remarkable:

• Over 600 career wins as head coach at Gonzaga.
• Multiple West Coast Conference championships.
• Numerous NCAA Tournament appearances, including several deep runs.
• Consistent ranking within the top 25 of national polls.

Few has also received various coaching accolades, including being named WCC Coach of the Year multiple times. His ability to develop talent and create a winning atmosphere has garnered respect from peers and players throughout the sport.

Impact on College Basketball

Mark Few's influence extends beyond Gonzaga. He has played a significant role in changing the perception of mid-major programs in college basketball. Few's success has demonstrated that schools outside the power conferences can compete at the highest level. His teams have consistently challenged the notion that only elite programs can achieve success in the NCAA Tournament.

Moreover, Few has been instrumental in recruiting top talent to Gonzaga. He has attracted players who might not have considered a mid-major school, contributing to the Bulldogs' rise in prominence. His coaching methods and player development have led to numerous Gonzaga alumni making successful transitions to the NBA.

Conclusion

In summary, Mark Few's journey from a college player to a highly successful coach is a testament to his dedication and passion for basketball. While Few did not have a standout playing career, his experiences shaped his coaching philosophy, leading him to become one of the most respected figures in college basketball. His impact on Gonzaga and the sport as a whole is undeniable, as he has paved the way for future generations of players and coaches.

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