Santa Clara closed out a 76–71 win over St. Mary’s (CA) in NCAA action, earning a five-point victory in a game that stayed competitive deep into the second half. With the provided box score limited to the final score, the defining storyline was Santa Clara’s ability to execute late and protect a narrow margin down the stretch. St. Mary’s kept the pressure on throughout, but Santa Clara consistently answered to maintain control and prevent the Gaels from generating a decisive run. In a game decided by one or two possessions, Santa Clara’s late-game shot-making and composure proved to be the difference. The result is a notable win for Santa Clara against a traditionally strong West Coast program, while St. Mary’s will view the outcome as a missed opportunity in a tight contest. Going forward, Santa Clara can build on this performance as evidence it can win close games, and St. Mary’s will likely focus on improving late-game execution in similar possession-by-possession finishes.