This is huge news for Gonzaga, as Karnowski stands as the defensive anchor in the paint for the Bulldogs. He’s been an imposing force down low for Gonzaga since he first stepped on campus in 2012. Karnowski provides head coach Mark Few with a big body in the post capable of scoring and stifling opposing centers on the defensive end.

Karnowski suffered a season-ending back injury in December that Few described as a “bulging disc” issue. Prior to the injury, he was averaging 8.8 points and 5.4 rebounds per game.

Having played in less than 30 percent of Gonzaga’s games last season, Karnowski was eligible to receive a medical redshirt and return for one final year as a Zag. However, he was considering other options, such as returning to his native Poland to pursue a professional career overseas.

Had he chosen that path, Gonzaga would have lost all three valuable big men, as Kyle Wiltjer and Domantas Sabonis are both headed for the NBA Draft.

Now, Karnowski should slide right back into the starting lineup for Gonzaga with Mizzou transfer Johnathan Williams III likely starting next to him at power forward. That’s a strong, dynamic duo for Few to lean on next season. 

The Zags also have the nation’s No. 15 incoming recruiting class, headlined by 4-star center Zach Collins, who will likely be Gonzaga’s sixth man next season. Along with Collins, Few is welcoming 4-star recruits Rui Hachimura and Killian Tillie, as well as 3-star prospects Zach Norvell and Jacob Larsen. Former Washington star Nigel Williams-Goss will join the Bulldogs backcourt next season as a transfer as well.

It’s Gonzaga’s best recruiting class in school history.

With Karnowski’s return, the Zags have the talent, experience and depth to compete with anyone in the country.

Note: Scout rankings and ratings used in this article.

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