Both Fresno State men’s and women’s basketball teams find themselves in the thick of conference play with plenty of opportunity to make something happen down the stretch of the season.
Two underclassmen made their mark in the month of January, steadying the rock and keeping the Bulldogs afloat.
On the men’s side, DeShawn Gory has become a force on both ends of the floor. In the month of January, the freshman forward is averaging 15.6 points per game and 10.1 rebounds per game on an efficient 49.1% shooting from the field.
Back in November, Walberg applauded Gory’s attention to detail and his work ethic in putting in extra time and work, especially defensively and in rebounding. It paid off for him. Gory’s rapid rise shouldn’t be all that surprising considering Gory’s athleticism.
Gory and the Bulldogs return to the Save Mart Center on Tuesday, Feb. 3 to host the University of Las Vegas, Nevada at 8 p.m.
For the women’s team, Danae Powell has risen to new heights in her sophomore season after primarily being used off the bench a year ago. The point guard is averaging 10.5 PPG and 3.5 RPG per game, both marks are double what she averaged during the 2024-25 season.
Powell’s play has been even more impressive since the beginning of 2026, averaging 12.9 PPG, 3.7 RPG over the last 9 games. She also had 16 assists and 11 steals during that stretch.
The 5’7” guard from Las Vegas will look to take her hot streak into February, beginning on Wednesday evening in Silicon Valley when Fresno State plays at San Jose State, tip-off is set for 7 p.m. The Bulldogs return home on Saturday, Feb. 7 to host Nevada.
Honorable Mentions
- Emilia Long (WBB): 14 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 4 APG, 1.8 SPG
- Katelyn Mobley (WP): GCC Player of the Week, 81 saves in 8 games
- David Douglas Jr. (MBB): 11 PPG, 45.2% 3PT FG
Story written by Al Scott, photos courtesy of Ryan Sepulveda (FSM).