SPOKANE, Wash. — Khalif Battle was a standout performer with 21 points, including a perfect 4-for-4 from beyond the arc, as No. 4 Gonzaga triumphed over UMass Lowell with a decisive score of 113-54 on Friday evening.

Nolan Hickman also made significant contributions with 14 points, shooting an impressive 4-for-5 from three-point territory, as Gonzaga improved to a 3-0 record for the season, marking their best start since the 2021-22 campaign.

Braden Huff and Ryan Nembhard contributed 13 points each, while Dusty Stromer and Graham Ike added 11 points apiece. Quinton Mincey led UMass Lowell (2-1) with 10 points.

Gonzaga quickly established control of the game, racing to a 21-7 lead highlighted by an 11-0 scoring run within the first five minutes. Hickman and Battle collectively amassed 22 points in the first half, allowing Gonzaga to head into halftime with a comfortable 49-27 advantage.

After the intermission, Battle continued his shooting success, hitting two 3-pointers on Gonzaga’s initial possessions, helping to stretch the lead to 40 points well before the midpoint of the second half.

**Game Insights**

For UMass Lowell, their first loss showcased difficulties beyond the arc as they managed only 3 of 15 from three-point range, in addition to committing 25 turnovers. Their initial two games had seen them shooting 16 for 35 on three-pointers but the turnover count stood at 22.

On the other side, Gonzaga’s Ben Gregg stepped in effectively off the bench, marking his first non-starting game since January 11 of the previous season. He delivered seven points and grabbed 10 rebounds, thereby aiding the Gonzaga bench to outscore UMass Lowell’s reserves by a striking 48-12 margin.

**Pivotal Moment**

The game turned decisively in Gonzaga’s favor when they unleashed a 30-2 run in the second half, featuring a fast-break dunk and a transition 3-pointer from Battle. This remarkable scoring stretch pushed Gonzaga’s lead to a staggering 50 points with just over seven minutes left on the clock.

**Statistical Highlights**

Gonzaga’s defensive prowess was evident, as they recorded 16 steals and seven blocks, while also capitalizing on turnovers to score 32 points.

**Looking Ahead**

Next up for UMass Lowell is a matchup against Washington on Sunday, while Gonzaga will head to San Diego State on Monday before returning home for a game against Long Beach State on Wednesday.