WCC Basketball: BYU, Pacific rises in latest 2020-21 power rankings

Jan 7, 2021; Spokane, Washington, USA; Brigham Young Cougars forward Matt Haarms (3) reacts after being called for a foul during a game against the Gonzaga Bulldogs in the first half of a WCC men’s basketball game at McCarthey Athletic Center. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports /

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Santa Clara Broncos WCC Basketball Cody Glenn-USA TODAY Sports /

6. LMU Lions (7-4, 2-1)

The Lions have been strong on home, currently unbeaten and with conference wins over San Francisco and San Diego, the ladder of which came in overtime. Their upcoming home matchups against Santa Clara and Saint Mary’s will tell more about this team but so far, first-year head coach Stan Johnson has done a solid job.

Star senior Eli Scott, who leads the team with 15.5 ppg, 8.5 rpg and 3.5 apg, has more help this season, including the return of 7’3 big man Mattias Markusson (6.8 ppg and 4.1 rpg). Sophomore guard Dameane Douglas is averaging 13.6 ppg and 7.2 rpg, while the team has been one of the stronger defensive units in the conference up to this point.

5. Santa Clara Broncos (8-3, 2-1)

While the overall record looks strong, the Broncos have feasted against weaker competition, while losing by double-digits against the top opponents on the schedule. But considering the amount of talent they lost to the transfer portal, the results should still be viewed as a positive.

Big man Josip Vrankic leads the way with 14.3 ppg and 8.5 rpg, while guard Keyshawn Justice has been strong in conference play so far. Santa Clara struggles to score but is a good defensive unit as long as they don’t have a disadvantage in terms of athleticism.