Preview of Santa Clara vs. Washington State Men’s Basketball

NEBRASKA CITY, Neb. (Interstat) — A surging Santa Clara squad faces a Washington State team seeking consistency in a nonconference men’s basketball matchup Saturday at Beasley Coliseum.

The Broncos (20-5), organized by the West Coast, enter on a seven-game winning streak following a 71-56 road victory at Pacific on Wednesday. Santa Clara has averaged 88.1 points during its streak, showcasing a balanced and efficient offense.

A key catalyst is guard Allen Graves, who has scored in double figures in seven consecutive games. Over that span, he is averaging 13.7 points per game, including a 17-point performance in just 21 minutes in a win over Loyola Marymount on Jan. 31.

Washington State (11-14) looks to rebound from a 74-64 loss at Oregon State on Wednesday. The Cougars have struggled for traction, alternating wins and losses in their past six games.

Forward ND Okafor has been a bright spot for Washington State, providing steady interior production. He has scored 13 or more points in five of his last six outings, including a 21-point effort in a narrow loss at San Diego on Jan. 21.

The game represents a contrast in season trajectories. Santa Clara, with just five losses, is positioning itself for postseason consideration. Washington State, below .500, aims to build momentum for the final stretch of its schedule.

Santa Clara’s defense has been formidable during its streak, holding opponents to an average of 68.7 points. Containing Okafor and limiting second-chance opportunities will be a focus. For Washington State, slowing the Broncos’ offensive rhythm and finding secondary scoring behind Okafor will be critical.

This is the first meeting between the programs this season.