Why the Zags at No. 1 is a big deal

After surviving BYU and crushing Portland this weekend, the Zags did what they needed to do and they were rewarded handsomely.

Gonzaga is No. 1 for the first time in school history, and unlike having to play any more regular season games - the move right into the WCC Tournament.

Why is this such a big deal?

Spokane usually doesn't get to lead the country in anything except for weird street people that like to ask for money and mumble to themselves. The town will go absolutely nuts and they deserve it since they live and die with their Zags.

Playing in the WCC, Gonzaga is the definition of a mid-major. While a No. 1 mid-major squad has happened before, it's still amazing for someone that doesn't play in the big 6 conferences to get the nod. Look at how the Zags have been chewing up the WCC and it's in stark contrast from years past where Gonzaga was eeking by these opponents and then wondering why they didn't get respect from the national media. They're impressive, if not the most impressive version of the Zags I've seen.

What does this mean? Probably a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament, which practically means a trip to the Sweet 16 (probability wise). The Zags have never gotten any further than the Elite Eight and it looks like that this season Gonzaga might be able to go further.

Is this the year the Zags make the leap?

(Click here to get on the bandwagon now)