- Aiming for first back-to-back WCC Tournament titles since 1992
- 76.8% win rate since 2007 trails only Gonzaga, Kansas, Duke
- Swept Gonzaga in regular season for first time in 30 years
- Developed All-Conference stars despite losing key transfers
- Seeking first Sweet 16 appearance since 2010
In the shadow of San Francisco's tech boom, Saint Mary's College continues rewriting mid-major basketball history. The Gaels' 27-4 record marks their ninth 25-win season under 23-year coach Randy Bennett, whose program now rivals Gonzaga as the WCC's gold standard. Their 63-57 February victory at Gonzaga's McCarthey Athletic Center - the Bulldogs' first home conference loss since 2018 - symbolized a shifting power dynamic in West Coast hoops.
While NIL collectives reshape college sports, Saint Mary's thrives through old-school team building. The Gaels rank 327th nationally in roster experience yet lead Division I in defensive efficiency (87.3 ppg allowed). This stems from Bennett's developmental approach: starters Augustas Marciulionis and Mitchell Saxen both redshirted before becoming All-WCC selections. Their growth offset the transfers of 2023 standouts Aidan Mahaney (UConn) and Joshua Jefferson (Iowa State).
The program's 16-year .768 win percentage reflects remarkable consistency for a 3,500-seat gymnasium. Athletic director Mike Matoso notes, 'We recruit players who value legacy over immediate rewards.' This philosophy mirrors the San Antonio Spurs' system admired by Bennett, emphasizing player development and continuity. Regional corporations now partner with athletes through the 'Gaels Rise' NIL collective, blending tradition with modern opportunities.
As March Madness looms, Saint Mary's seeks to shed its 'tournament underachiever' label. Despite 11 NCAA bids since 2005, their lone Sweet 16 run came in 2010. Senior center Saxen believes this year's defensive identity changes the narrative: 'We grind teams down fundamentally rather than relying on streaks.' With a projected 5-seed, the Gaels could make their deepest postseason run yet - potentially facing WCC rival Gonzaga on college basketball's biggest stage.
