COL BKB: St. Mary's 78, Loyola Marymnt. 53

MORAGA, Calif., Jan. 16 (UPI) -- Diamon Simpson scored 14 points Thursday and No. 25 Saint Mary's stormed to a quick lead en route to its 13th straight win -- 78-53 over Loyola Marymount.

The Gaels equaled the longest winning streak in school history and celebrated their ranking in the coaches' poll by staying in a first-place tie in the West Coast Conference.

Saint Mary's (16-1, 3-0 WCC) took a 17-5 lead and coasted to a 44-23 advantage at the break. The Gaels have not lost since falling to Texas-El Paso Nov. 27.

Loyola (1-17, 0-2) got 17 points from Jarred DuBois.

The Gaels will try to set a school record for consecutive victories Saturday when they play host to Pepperdine.