As with most people who visit these confines, a few days in the desert did wonders for the University of Washington basketball team, which picked up a pair of victories against tougher competition, including a 76-69 decision over Santa Clara on Friday afternoon to win the Acrisure Invitational.

Santa Clara and Washington have put their Thanksgiving feast on hold until late Friday, delaying the celebration until after they battle for the championship of the Acrisure Invitational in Palm Desert,