New Mexico State (2-0) vs. Santa Clara (4-0)
Leavey Center, Santa Clara, California; Saturday, 5 p.m. EST
BOTTOM LINE: Santa Clara looks for its fifth straight victory of the season as it goes up against New Mexico State. New Mexico State blew out Benedictine Mesa by 38 at home on Tuesday. Santa Clara is coming off a 53-47 win in Santa Cruz over Cal State Bakersfield on Wednesday.
STEPPING UP: The powerful Josip Vrankic has put up 18.8 points and 7.3 rebounds to lead the way for the Broncos. Complementing Vrankic is Jaden Bediako, who is putting up 8.3 points and 9.8 rebounds per game. The Aggies are led by Donnie Tillman, who is averaging 16 points and six rebounds.JUMPING FOR JOSIP: Vrankic has connected on 25 percent of the 12 3-pointers he's attempted. He's also made 66.7 percent of his free throws this season.
STREAK SCORING: Santa Clara has scored 63.5 points per game and allowed 54 over its four-game home winning streak.
STINGY DEFENSE: Santa Clara has held opposing teams to 54 points per game this year, the ninth-lowest figure among all Division I teams.
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