SANTA CLARA, Calif. — A big run to open the second half helped propel the Gaels to their seventh WCC win and remain in the middle of the race for a top-spot in the conference standings.

HOW IT HAPPENED
Jordan Ford, the WCC's leading scorer, had an efficient night going 8-for-13 from the floor while making six of his eight free throws to lead all players with 23 points. Ford entered the night averaging 21.6 points per contest.

Jordan Hunter had a strong defensive game with five blocked shots and a game-high 10 rebounds. The senior broke his former all-time high of four that he set almost one year to date last year on Feb. 15, 2018 against San Francisco.

The Gaels kicked off the second half with a 7-0 run for their first double-digit lead of the game. Another 8-0 run immediately following the first media timeout would give Saint Mary's a 20-point lead and all but cement the victory. SMC maintained a double-digit lead for the remainder of the contest.

Malik Fitts scored 16 for Saint Mary's and grabbed six boards while Tanner Krebs added 13 more, including three 3-pointers.

Saint Mary's took a 33-26 lead into the half and led by as much as nine in the opening period. Tanner Krebs led the Gaels' first half efforts with 10 points and two made treys. Ford provided nine more points while Fitts contributed eight.

Saint Mary's defense provided separation during the early portion of the contest as they held the Broncos to go 1-for-11 after making their first two buckets.

Tahj Eaddy had a team-high 13 for Santa Clara while Trey Wertz scored 11 as the team's only two scorers in double figures.

NUMBERS TO KNOW

• 8: Saint Mary's has won the last eight contests against Santa Clara.
• 15: SMC outrebounded the Broncos by 15 in the game, 39-24.
• 17: 17 of the Gaels' 19 free throws came in the second half.
• 23: Saint Mary's largest lead of the game.
• 39.5: The Gaels led for 39:30 in the game and never trailed.

UP NEXT: PEPPERDINE

• Saint Mary's returns to Moraga for an 8 p.m. showdown with the Waves in McKeon Pavilion. Information and links for the game can be found on the Gaels' schedule page.