By Alex Valle – Content Editor
San Jose State men’s basketball fell to Santa Clara University 89-84, resulting in its seventh straight loss.
SJSU (3-9, 0-2 MW) had no answer for SCU’s (11-2) dominance in the paint.
The Broncos posted 26 points down low while shooting 57 percent from the field.
Sophomore forward Guglielmo Caruso led SCU in the first half, scoring 18 of his 25 points and making 8 of his 9 shots.
SJSU got off to a slow start offensively only shooting 36 percent.
The Spartans’ offense had no rhythm or flow resulting in scoreless stretches and 13 first-half turnovers.
Down by 15 points at the half, the game looked like another blowout waiting to happen.
Head coach Jean Prioleau and his squad had other plans after the break.
The Spartans were on fire offensively shooting 53.1 percent from the field and scoring 58 points in comparison to 26 in the first half.
SJSU had five players score in double figures as it was led by guard Zach Chappell, who posted a season-high in both points, 20, and assists, six.
SJSU’s defense was poor on the perimeter and in the post allowing for SCU to shoot 54.2 percent in the second half.
The Broncos adjusted to their big men being double-teamed down low, creating opportunities from beyond the arc.
A noticeable problem for SJSU has been the assist to turnover ratio and points allowed in the paint.
The halftime adjustments made by Prioleau were pivotal to SJSU’s second half.
It just wasn’t enough.
The Spartans will look to bounce back at home against UC Riverside on Sunday, Dec. 22 at 2 p.m.
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