By Robert Haugh

Santa Clara University’s (SCU) Adama Bal enters tonight’s big game against the No. 23 Gonzaga Bulldogs riding a 28-point performance against Pepperdine.

The Broncos won that game and are 5-2 at home. They face their biggest season test so far.

Gonzaga, ranked 23rd nationally, is 2-0 in conference play. They boast a potent inside attack averaging 43.5 points in the paint per game.

The Bulldogs are anchored by Graham Ike’s 15.2 points and 8.0 rebounds per game.

Santa Clara counters with their three-point shooting, averaging 8.3 three-pointers per game.

This WCC conference clash should feature intense competition.

The pivotal matchup will tip off at 6:30 p.m. tonight at the Leavey Center on the SCU campus.