Men’s Basketball Falls Short in WCC Matchup

Photo by Amy Suh

On a night when the Santa Clara Broncos needed a West Coast Conference victory, they ran out of gas in the second half, falling 67-54 to the conference-leading Saint Mary’s Gaels at the Leavey Center. The game was highlighted by a high-energy performer in front of a raucous home crowd. 

The Broncos started the game with three turnovers in the first five minutes but played solid defense to keep the game 3-2 in favor of the Gaels during that time. After two impressive scoring runs from both teams, the Broncos were in good shape heading into the half down 26-24 to the first place team in the WCC. 

They went into the break with high energy after causing six first-half turnovers and holding the Gaels to a 33% shooting percentage from the field. That same energy was brought by Bay Area native rapper P-Lo, best known for his catchy songs created for Bay Area sports teams and his biggest hit, “Put Me On Somethin,” featuring global superstar E-40. He took time for the fans throughout the game, participating in trivia questions, giving out signed jerseys and performing at halftime. 

When asked about the energy, Maira Clotfelter Bastias ’27 said, “The atmosphere was spirited and energetic, the stands were packed with cheering fans,” further adding, “It was a great environment.” This is something that all Broncos—players and fans alike—want to see more of. 

However, the Broncos started the second half 0-for-8 from the floor, while Saint Mary’s went on a 26-0 run during this time. The Broncos were outrebounded 12-0 during that time and didn’t score their first basket until Christoph Tilly ’26 made a layup at the 9:59 mark. 

Carlos Stewart Jr. ’25 led all scorers with 24 points, earning his fifth 20-point game of the season. He also gave the Broncos a chance late, scoring 10 of the Broncos final 18 points. 

Broncos head coach Herb Sendek had nothing but respect for the energy the Gaels bring to every game, noting, “...they set a very high bar. They're clearly one of the best programs in the country.” Sendek also added that the Broncos are continuing to grow and have a talented team.