Ryan Barnett

Saint Mary’s Men’s Basketball was once again able to showcase their offensive firepower on Friday night, defeating the UIC Flames 84–61 before a raucous crowd in the UCU Pavilion. The Gaels now move to 3–1 on the year—and they extend their home unbeaten streak to 29 in a row. Only three other teams in the country can claim that many. Friday night was Veterans Appreciation Night in Moraga, and the Saint Mary’s veterans saw the home team deliver on offense, defense, and rebounding.

Featured Image Caption A night to celebrate: Thomas Ndong racked up 18 points on 7–9 shooting for the Gaels en route to their win. / Photo by Varun Aravind for SMC Athletics This was Saint Mary’s season opener—and Mickey McConnell’s first game as head coach. With double digits from Mantas Juzenas, Thomas Ndong, Vangelis Zougris, and Darius Bivins, the Gaels earned a come-from-behind 90–85 win.

Featured Image Caption A force to be reckoned with: Mantas Juzenas broke scoring records playing this summer in Europe. Look for him to be one of the Gaels’ go-to scorers this season. / Photo by Varun Aravind for SMC Athletics Saturday offered a first look at Mickey McConnell’s squad. In a hard-fought 97–89 loss, Juzenas led the Gaels with 24 points, including five three-pointers. Vangelis Zougris racked up a double-double. Darius Bivins and Rory Hawke scored 11 each.