What to Expect From Nathan De Sousa, Xaivian Lee as the Zags’ Possible Starting Backcourt
What do both Nathan De Sousa and Xaivian Lee bring to Gonzaga’s table?
Coach Mark Few and the Gonzaga Bulldogs backcourt have been experiencing a whirlwind of changes since the start of the offseason. However, they have now found a potential starting backcourt in French guard Nathan De Sousa and former Princeton and Florida guard Xaivian Lee. De Sousa, a 23-year-old guard from France, has played in the country's top league, Betclic Elite, for the past six years.
He has played for Cholet Basket for five years and one season with Gries-Souffel. De Sousa brings experience to the table, with a polished ball-handling ability that has resulted in a 2.72 assist/turnover ratio last year with Cholet. He is a capable scorer, averaging 10.9 points on 43.4/36.1/76.9 shooting splits last year. His energy on the court, both defensively and offensively, is contagious and could fit seamlessly into Gonzaga's offense.
Lee, a 6-4 guard from the Ivy League, was also a transfer from Florida. He averaged 16.9 points per game on 44/37/79 splits last season at Princeton. Despite a slow start in the SEC, Lee has found his groove, slashing to the rim and improving his three-point shooting. His ability to score both inside and outside the arc makes him a versatile threat for the Zags.
With both De Sousa and Lee cleared by the NCAA, they are the likely candidates for the starting backcourt for the 2026-27 season, providing Gonzaga with a mix of experience and youth.
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