SANTA CLARA, Calif. (Interstat) — A surging Santa Clara squad looks to continue its strong start to the season when it hosts a struggling San Diego team in a West Coast Conference men’s basketball matchup Sunday at Leavey Center.

The Broncos (11-4) enter on a three-game winning streak, including decisive road victories at Oregon State (102-64) and Portland (92-85) last week. They have won eight of their last ten and boast a perfect 7-0 record at home this season.

Conversely, the Toreros (6-8) have lost three of their last four, most recently falling 99-93 to Gonzaga on Tuesday despite a strong offensive showing. San Diego is 1-5 in true road games this season.

The game features a compelling backcourt matchup between two of the league’s top scorers. Santa Clara is led by guard Elijah Mahi, who has averaged 20.3 points over his last three games, including a 22-point performance in the win at Portland.

San Diego will rely on dynamic guard Ty-Laur Johnson, who has scored 21 or more points in four of his last six outings. Johnson poured in 21 points with two assists in the loss to Gonzaga and is averaging 21.5 points per game over that six-game stretch.

For Santa Clara, balance has been key. Alongside Mahi, Christian Hammond (14 points, 5 assists vs. Portland) and Brenton Knapper (16 points vs. Portland) provide consistent support. The Broncos average 81.1 points per game.

San Diego, which averages 73.6 points, will need more than just Johnson’s production. Adrian McIntyre dished out seven assists against Gonzaga, while Juanse Gorosito added 16 points in that contest.

Historically, Santa Clara has dominated the series, winning 15 of the last 17 meetings. The teams will meet again in San Diego on Jan. 24.

Following this contest, Santa Clara faces a tough road test at Gonzaga on Thursday. San Diego returns home to host Pepperdine on Jan. 8.

Tipoff is set for Sunday afternoon.