BYU Basketball takes care of Santa Clara, sets up matchup versus Gonzaga

BYU gave up a 10-point halftime lead, but the Cougars shored up things late for a 85-75 win over Santa Clara.

BYU had its worst thee-point night of the season — shooting 3-13 from deep — but TJ Haws’ 28 points, 9 assists and clutch play late kept BYU from blowing the game. Santa Clara followed San Diego’s blueprint of not doubling Yoeli Childs and sticking on three point shooters. Childs could never fully take advantage, finishing with 22 points on 8-20 shooting and 4-10 from the line. Toolson added 20 points and 10 rebounds, but was shut down from the three-point line (0-2).

Dalton Nixon’s presence was missed once again, as the senior forward continues to recover from an ankle injury. Nixon likely won’t return until the NCAA Tournament, if at all.

The win was BYU’s seventh straight and moved the Cougars to 22-7 on the season. BYU also ensured at worst a three seed in the WCC tournament and is still in the driver’s seat for the number two seed.

BYU next welcomes #2 Gonzaga to the Marriott Center for a senior night showdown in a sold out Marriott Center.