Broncos Cough Up First Half Advantage in Loss to Loyola Marymount

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Anthony Ireland’s 29 points led the way for the Loyola Marymount Lions as they overcame a first half deficit to defeat the Broncos 84-80.

Evan Roquemore’s 21 paced the Broncos, who also received double-digit contributions from Raymond Cowels III, Kevin Foster, and Brandon Clark.

The Broncos jumped out to an early 20-6 lead, seemingly scoring at will. They continued to push the pace and let 44-35 at halftime.

However, the second half was a different story, as the Lions outscored Santa Clara by 13 points. Midway through the half, the comfortable lead had evaporated and Loyal took a 53-52 lead, their first advantage of the game.

It would be a see-saw battle from that point on, but eight straight points from Ireland in crunch time opened up a six-point lead for Loyola Marymount with less than two minutes to play.

The Lions would hold on to that lead, and scratch out a four point victory at home.

The Broncos are now 1-2 in WCC action and 12-5 overall. They will face Brigham Young at home on Saturday.