The time is here for more of our sparkling CBB picks, as we look at the schedule for basketball for Thursday night. The Santa Clara Broncos and St. Mary’s Gaels will have it in a nationally televised game, which can be seen on the college basketball TV schedule on ESPN2.

Free College Hoops Picks: St. Mary’s Gaels @ Santa Clara Broncos
Date: Thursday, February 7th, 11:00 ET
Location: Leavey Center, Santa Clara, CA
St. Mary’s vs. Santa Clara Live TV: ESPN2

This is a big one in the WCC, knowing that the Broncos are still trying to make this a race for the conference title and the Gaels are still trying to prove that they are worthy of being in the NCAA Tournament. A veteran St. Mary’s team knows what’s coming in this one, as this will not be an easy game. The club has been able to win gritty games like this one over and over again, and this should be no exception. The Broncos have a high flying team that has won 17 games this year and will at least think about contending for a spot in the dance as well. However, when push comes to shove and you really look at the resume that Santa Clara has put together, you can’t be impressed. The team was smacked against the BYU Cougars by 17 and 18 points in two games this year, and the Gonzaga Bulldogs blew the Broncos away as well. It’s just not a friendly spot to be in. Add into the mix the fact that Santa Clara is 5-17 ATS in its last 22 at home and St. Mary’s is 7-3 ATS in its last 10 on the road, and the makings are there for a short win for the visitors.

St. Mary’s vs. Santa Clara Pick: St. Mary’s Gaels -2
St. Mary’s vs. Santa Clara Prediction: St. Mary’s 83 – Santa Clara 76