San Diego State's Defensive Powerhouse: Magoon Gwath Named Top 5 Defender
San Diego State Aztecs' head coach Brian Dutcher has built a defensive juggernaut, and the team's success is no coincidence. The Aztecs' relentless, physical style of play has propelled them to remarkable achievements, including a national championship game appearance in 2023.
As San Diego State prepares for its final season in the Mountain West before joining the Pac-12, the focus remains on the team's defensive prowess. The star of the show is sophomore center Magoon Gwath, a towering 7'0 presence who has been recognized as one of the top defenders in college basketball.
Gwath's defensive prowess was recently highlighted by NCAA reporter Andy Katz, who included him in a list of the ten best defenders. Gwath secured the fifth spot, behind Luke Bamgboye (Texas Tech), Tamin Lipsey (Iowa State), JoJo Tugler (Houston), and Yaxel Lendeborg (Michigan).
Despite being a redshirt freshman in the 2023-24 season, Gwath made an immediate impact. He started all 26 games, averaging 8.5 points and 5.2 rebounds, while leading the conference with an impressive 2.6 blocks per game. His block rate of 14.5% was not only the highest in the Mountain West but also the second-highest in the entire NCAA, behind Malcolm Wilson of Queens.
Gwath's defensive rating, an estimate of points allowed per 100 possessions, was a solid 96.3, ranking fifth in the Mountain West. This achievement, coming from a player considered a raw prospect, showcases his potential for growth and his impact on the team's defense.
The good news for Gwath and the Aztecs is that he is not alone in his defensive prowess. Miles Byrd, a perimeter defender, and Gwath form a formidable 1-2 punch, both offensively and defensively. Additionally, the return of veteran guard Reese Dixon-Waters, along with role players Pharaoh Compton, BJ Davis, and Taj DeGourville, further strengthens the team's defensive capabilities.
San Diego State will put its defensive mettle to the test on Friday night in an exhibition game against the UCLA Bruins, tipping off at 7:00 PM PT at Viejas Arena. The Aztecs' tough-nosed defense, led by the stellar Magoon Gwath, promises an exciting showdown.
