On a late January Wednesday night, the Gaels of Saint Mary’s trotted down south to Santa Clara to face the Broncos, in one of the most anticipated matchups of the entire college basketball season at the mid-major level. The two programs have been known among the best mid-majors in the entire country.
Entering the enticing matchup, the Gaels entered at 18-3, and on the bubble to be amongst the top teams in the nation in the AP Poll. For the Broncos, a 14-8 record has been a bit underwhelming, but it was mainly due to a slow 3-5 start. Since then, the Broncos have been stellar, going 11-3, and 6-3 in conference play.
Bronco nation packed out the Leavey Center, and were incredibly loud all night.
Starting things off, the Gaels took an early lead, but the Broncos fought back. Both teams were great on the defensive end, but couldn’t get things going offensively. Big plays gave the Broncos the lead, as they looked like they had a chance to pull out the upset, but then the Gaels started to put things together.
Just before the half, late buckets gave them the lead, which led to a momentum carrier into the second half. At the break, they led 26-24, but went on a 30-0 run to start the second half, giving the Broncos practically no chance of winning.
Santa Clara made it closer late in the game, but at that time it was way too late. The Broncos were able to come away with the win, 67-54, putting up another incredible defensive performance.
No player on the Gaels had an outstanding performance, but that is Randy Bannett’s style. Mitchell Saxen finished with 12 points, while Luke Barett, Paulis Murauskas, Ashton Hardaway, and Harry Wessels all had 8+.
For the Broncos, Carlos Stewart Jr. had a great performance, with 24 points, but it seemed like his only help was Christoph Tilly, who had 11. All other players had 6 or less points.
Saint Mary’s have proven time and time again that they are the top team in the WCC, and the best mid-major in the country, by far.
The Gaels’ biggest game of the year is against Gonzaga on Saturday, where they hope to continue onto 10–0 in conference play. If so, the Gaels can truly establish themselves as a possible threat in March.