Event Preview
Overview
On Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 11:00 AM EEST, the Santa Clara Broncos women's basketball team will host the Simpson University Storm in a non-conference matchup at the Leavey Center in Santa Clara, California. This game offers both teams an opportunity to refine their playstyles and build momentum as they progress through their respective seasons.
Season Snapshot
Santa Clara Broncos
The Broncos concluded the 2024–25 season with a 14–17 overall record and an 8–12 mark in the West Coast Conference (WCC), placing them eighth in the conference standings. Under interim head coach Michael Floyd, the team faced challenges but demonstrated resilience throughout the season. Notably, they secured a significant road victory over No. 16 Gonzaga, marking their first win in Spokane since 2007. (reuters.com)
Simpson University Storm
Competing in the American Rivers Conference (ARC), the Storm were picked fourth in the 2025–26 ARC Preseason Coaches Poll. Last season, they tied for second in the league standings and led Division III in 3-point shooting percentage at 40.2%. Their up-tempo style produced an average of 77.7 points per game, ranking 13th nationally. Key returning players include Elle Street and Ella Anderson, both of whom earned honorable mention all-conference honors last season. (kniakrls.com)
Recent Form
As of December 6, 2025, specific details about the Broncos' recent games are not readily available. However, their previous season's performance, including the notable win against Gonzaga, suggests a team capable of competitive play.
For Simpson University, their preseason ranking and historical performance indicate a strong start to the season. Their high-scoring offense and efficient shooting from beyond the arc are key strengths that they will likely carry into this matchup.
Talking Points
- Offensive Strategies: How will Santa Clara's defense adjust to Simpson's high-scoring, 3-point heavy offense?
- Player Matchups: Which individual performances will be pivotal in determining the game's outcome?
- Coaching Impact: How will interim head coach Michael Floyd's strategies influence the Broncos' performance?
- Season Momentum: Can this game serve as a springboard for either team to build a winning streak?
Players to Watch
- Elle Street (Simpson University): A versatile guard who earned honorable mention all-conference honors last season, Street's playmaking abilities are crucial for the Storm's offense.
- Ella Anderson (Simpson University): Known for her efficient scoring and rebounding, Anderson's presence in the paint will be vital against Santa Clara's defense.
- Freja Werth (Santa Clara): As a leading scorer for the Broncos, Werth's ability to create scoring opportunities will be key to Santa Clara's offensive efforts.
Key Matchups & Storylines
- 3-Point Shooting Battle: Simpson's national-leading 3-point shooting percentage faces off against Santa Clara's perimeter defense.
- Rebounding Contest: With Anderson's rebounding prowess, Simpson aims to control the boards against the Broncos.
- Coaching Dynamics: Floyd's interim leadership for Santa Clara presents an opportunity for fresh strategies and team cohesion.
Fun Facts
- Simpson University led Division III in 3-point shooting percentage at 40.2% last season.
- Santa Clara's victory over Gonzaga in 2025 was their first in Spokane since 2007. (reuters.com)
- The Leavey Center, where the game will be held, has been the home court for Santa Clara's women's basketball team for several decades.
Things to Chirp About
- "Can Santa Clara's defense contain Simpson's 3-point barrage?"
- "Is this the game where the Broncos find their rhythm under Coach Floyd?"
- "How will Simpson's up-tempo offense fare against a WCC opponent?"
- "Which team will establish dominance in the paint?"
Prediction
While both teams bring unique strengths to the court, Simpson University's high-scoring offense and efficient 3-point shooting give them an edge in this matchup. However, Santa Clara's home-court advantage and potential for strategic adjustments under interim coach Michael Floyd could make it a closely contested game. The outcome will likely hinge on which team can execute their game plan more effectively.