Men's Basketball Looks to Extend Home-Winning Streak

After a late comeback win over Pacific last Saturday, the Santa Clara men’s basketball team looks to extend it’s home-winning streak this Thursday night versus Pepperdine. 

The Broncos have won their last 17 home games, dating back to last season. This streak is the fifth-longest in the NCAA, and third longest in Santa Clara history. They have captured six of the last seven wins over the Waves in regular season play. 

Unlike the women’s water polo team, the men’s basketball team is extremely young. There are currently zero seniors on the roster and nine underclassmen (four sophomores and five freshmen). 

Even though they don’t have veteran expertise from seniors, they do have size. Starters Willie Caruso and Josip Vrankic are listed at 6-foot-11 and 6-9, respectively, and while Caruso is ruled out with injury for the remainder of the season, Vrankic is excited as ever to face Pepperdine. 

“Every game we play from now on will be very important and meaningful for the postseason,” Vrankic said. “The last game against Pacific was a thriller—we pulled out a gritty win. But Pepperdine is another huge game for us and we are approaching as if it was our last game of the season. All bets are off. ”

Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. in Leavey Center against the Waves. 

Contact Lacey Yahnke at lyahnke@scu.edu or call (408) 554-4852.