PORTLAND, Ore. (Interstat) — Gonzaga advanced in the NCAA Tournament on Thursday night, fending off a persistent Kennesaw State team for a 73-64 victory at Moda Center.

The Bulldogs led 33-27 at halftime and maintained a working margin throughout the second half before 14,070 fans. The Owls, making their tournament appearance, closed within four points late but could not complete the upset.

Graham Ike led Gonzaga with 19 points, while Davis Fogle added 17. Jalen Warley contributed 12 points and five assists. Kennesaw State’s RJ Johnson scored 15 points, and Amir Taylor added 15 off the bench.

Gonzaga improved to 31-3 this season. Kennesaw State finished its season at 21-14.