re: How did Gonzaga become a powerhouse in basketball?

I believe their success is due to their location. Spokane is the largest population center between Seattle and Minneapolis. It is a regional center, but small enough to not have other competing factors such as pro sports. It is also remote to much of the country, which has given the city an itch for big events and attention. Gonzaga became the city/region's team after that first elite 8 run and they didn't let go.