Saint Mary’s has added a frontcourt piece for the 2025-26 season, landing a commitment from 7-footer Jazz Gardner out of the transfer portal. The former Pacific big man announced his decision on Monday, giving the Gaels a much-needed presence in the paint as they look to reload their roster and prepare to take on what is set to be a monstrous Gonzaga front court.
Gardner, a Southern California native, spent last season at Pacific where he started 27 games and appeared in 33 overall. He averaged 4.6 points and 3.8 rebounds per game while shooting over 60% from the field. Known more for his size and defensive potential than offensive polish, Gardner offers upside that Saint Mary’s will look to tap into over the next two seasons.
Before transferring to Pacific, Gardner began his college career at Nevada, where he saw limited action as a freshman. However, his 7-foot frame and background as a former top-150 high school prospect made him one of the more intriguing big men on the transfer market. Coming out of high school, Gardner held scholarship offers from major programs like USC, Kansas, and Georgia Tech.
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For the Gaels, Gardner helps fill the void left by graduating center Mitchell Saxen, a key piece of last year’s NCAA Tournament squad. With Saint Mary’s known for developing skilled big men in its system under head coach Randy Bennett, Gardner could find an ideal environment to grow his game and play a bigger role than he has at his previous stops.
His commitment comes at a crucial point in the offseason for the Gaels, who have seen some roster turnover following another successful campaign. With Gardner in the fold, Saint Mary’s adds size, rim protection, and developmental potential to its frontcourt rotation. Something they’ll desperately need against the like of Graham Ike, Braden Huff, Ismaila Diagne, and Parker Jefferson of the Zags.
Related: Gonzaga Lands Commitment From 2025 Center Parker Jefferson
