MORAGA, Calif. (Interstat) — A West Coast Conference clash featuring teams at opposite ends of the standings unfolds Wednesday when the surging Saint Mary’s Gaels host the struggling Pepperdine Waves at McKeon Pavilion. Saint Mary’s (21-4 overall, 8-2 WCC) enters as one of the nation’s hottest teams, having won 10 of its last 11 games. The Gaels are coming off a dominant 79-54 victory over San Francisco on Saturday, a performance highlighted by Joshua Dent’s 13-point, 11-assist double-double. The guard has been a catalyst, averaging 13.3 points and 6.9 assists over his last seven contests, showcasing elite floor leadership for a methodical Gaels offense. In stark contrast, Pepperdine (6-19, 1-9) has lost eight straight games since its lone conference win on Jan. 14. The Waves are reeling from a 92-59 home loss to Pacific on Saturday, where they allowed the Tigers to shoot 56.7% from the field. Sophomore guard Javon Cooley, the team’s most consistent scorer during the skid, led Pepperdine with 15 points in that defeat and has averaged 10.3 points over the last six games. The recent history of this matchup underscores the challenge ahead for the Waves. Just over a month ago, on Dec. 30, Saint Mary’s throttled Pepperdine 72-45 in Malibu, holding the Waves to 30.9% shooting. The Gaels’ stifling defense, ranked among the nation’s best, will again be central against a Pepperdine team that has failed to reach 70 points in four of its last five outings. For Saint Mary’s, maintaining focus is key with a critical road test at Gonzaga looming at month’s end. Another balanced effort, following Saturday’s where four Gaels scored in double figures, is expected. Pepperdine’s path to an upset requires a monumental defensive effort and efficient scoring from Cooley and backcourt mate Aaron Clark, who had 17 points against Pacific. Tipoff is set for 8 p.m. PST. The Gaels will look to solidify their position near the top of the WCC, while the Waves seek a stunning road victory to halt their prolonged slide.