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Injured Coach Leads Portland to Stunning Upset Over Gonzaga

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In a shocking upset, Portland defeated No. 6 Gonzaga 87-80, ending the Bulldogs' 30-game winning streak against teams with losing records. The Pilots, led by injured head coach Shantay Legans, pulled off a stunning performance. This marks a significant win for Portland, especially considering their coach was sidelined with an Achilles injury sustained while practicing with the team.

Portland's victory ended Gonzaga's 141-game winning streak against teams with losing records. Freshman Joel Foxwell led Portland with 27 points, outshining Gonzaga star Graham Ike. The Pilots shot efficiently, making 66% of their shots inside the arc. Gonzaga coach Mark Few admitted his team was outplayed and outexecuted in every phase of the game.

Legans, who tore his Achilles while playing with the scout team, guided his team from the sidelines. The win is a testament to Portland's resilience and strategic execution. This victory is a major boost for Portland's season, potentially impacting their conference standings. It also serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of college basketball.

Gonzaga's loss comes as they prepare to leave the WCC for the Pac-12 next season. The Bulldogs' last lead was early in the first half. Portland's impressive offensive performance and defensive strategies sealed the win. This upset will undoubtedly shake up the rankings and the overall dynamics of college basketball.