Santa Clara Basketball Advances to WCC Championship
Santa Clara basketball has made headlines after defeating No. 21 Saint Mary’s 76-71 in the West Coast Conference (WCC) tournament semifinals held in Las Vegas on March 10, 2026. This victory not only propels Santa Clara into the championship game against Gonzaga but also marks a significant achievement for the program, which has historically struggled against the Bulldogs.
The upcoming matchup will be the 11th meeting between Santa Clara and Gonzaga in the WCC Tournament, with Santa Clara having won only one of the previous ten encounters. Despite this challenging history, the Broncos are looking to secure their third WCC Championship title, having previously won in 1987 and 1993. The stakes are high as they aim to change the narrative surrounding their performance against Gonzaga.
Head coach Herb Sendek celebrated a personal milestone during the semifinal victory, achieving his 600th career win. Sendek’s leadership has been pivotal in guiding the team through a successful season, which has seen Santa Clara post a remarkable 26 wins, tying for the second-most in program history. The team’s offensive prowess has been evident, averaging 83.5 points per game this season, showcasing their ability to compete at a high level.
In the semifinal against Saint Mary’s, standout performances were delivered by Sash Gavalyugov, who scored 23 points, and Elijah Mahi, who contributed 19 points. Allen Graves also played a crucial role, finishing the game with 10 points. Their collective efforts were instrumental in securing the victory, demonstrating the depth and talent within the Santa Clara roster.
Observers have noted that this victory could have broader implications for the WCC, particularly regarding NCAA tournament selections. If the selection committee views Santa Clara’s win over a ranked Saint Mary’s team as a significant resume booster, there is potential for the WCC to send three teams to the NCAA tournament this year. This possibility adds an exciting layer to the upcoming championship game.
As the Broncos prepare to face Gonzaga, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. “Santa Clara delivers when it mattered most,” remarked a commentator on the team’s performance. The challenge ahead is formidable, but the momentum gained from the semifinal victory could play a crucial role in their approach to the championship game.
Details remain unconfirmed about the specific strategies Santa Clara will employ against Gonzaga, but the team is undoubtedly focused on overcoming their historical challenges. With a strong season behind them and a determined mindset, Santa Clara basketball is poised to make a significant impact in the WCC Championship.
