Category: Cal Bears

Cal Bears podcast Barbara Mason: Keawe-Sagapolutele looks to rack up throwing yards against UNLV Saturday

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Cal Bears quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele (3) attempts to make a pass against the Louisville Cardinals at L & N Federal Credit Union Stadium in Louisville on Sat Nov 8, 2025. The Bears face UNLV Rebels this Sat Oct 3, 2026 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.(AP News file photo)

Cal Bears podcast Barbara Mason:

#1 How did Cal quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele respond to Clemson’s defensive pressure after entering the game averaging more than 321 passing yards per game?

#2 What impact did Cal wide receiver Kyion Grayes have against Clemson’s secondary, and how did the Tigers limit his big-play opportunities?

#3 How did Cal running back Adam Mohammed contribute to the Golden Bears’ offense against Clemson’s front seven?

#4 What adjustments could Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele and Cal’s passing game have made after Clemson held him to a career-low 119 passing yards?

#5 How did Cal’s defense respond to Clemson running back Gideon Davidson, who rushed for 159 yards and two touchdowns, including a 75-yard touchdown run?

Join Barbara Mason for the Cal Bears podcasts each Mondays at http://www.sportsradioservice.com

Cal Bears podcast Daniel Dullum: Focusing on what went wrong for Cal against Clemson

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Kamar Mothudi (3) celebrates his fumble return for a touchdown in the first quarter against the Clemson Tigers on Fri Sep 25, 2026 . (Photo by: Brianna Ali/Cal Athletics)

Cal Bears podcast Daniel Dullum:

#1 How did Cal quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele respond to Clemson’s defensive pressure after entering the game averaging more than 321 passing yards per game?

#2 What impact did Cal wide receiver Kyion Grayes have against Clemson’s secondary, and how did the Tigers limit his big-play opportunities?

#3 How did Cal running back Adam Mohammed contribute to the Golden Bears’ offense against Clemson’s front seven?

#4 What adjustments could Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele and Cal’s passing game have made after Clemson held him to a career-low 119 passing yards?

#5 How did Cal’s defense respond to Clemson running back Gideon Davidson, who rushed for 159 yards and two touchdowns, including a 75-yard touchdown run?

Join Daniel Dullum for the Cal Bears podcasts each Sunday at http://www.sportsradioservice.com

Tigers are Golden against the Bears as Clemson defeats California, 24-10

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Cal quarterback (#3) Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele hands off to running back (#24) Adam Mohammed in a NCAA conference football matchup against Clemson Tigers at the California Memorial Stadium in Berkeley, CA on September 25th, 2026. (Photo credits to IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)

By Michael Villanueva

BERKELEY – On Friday night at the foot of the Berkeley Hills, the California Golden Bears (2-2) once again hosted the Clemson Tigers (3-1) for an ACC conference football showdown. However, the Clemson Tigers got the win Friday night and are now on a three-game winning streak. The Golden Bears and Tigers last faced off in a historic Florida Citrus Bowl in 1992, where Cal defeated Clemson 37–13. After tonight, Cal will have played its only Friday night of the season this week against Clemson.

After defeating Syracuse on the road in Week 2 on September 12, the Bears are 1-0 in ACC play in 2026. Last weekend, the team defeated Wagner 49-7, the biggest margin of victory since a road win at Oregon State on October 20, 2018. In terms of passing defense efficiency, Cal is ranked 10th nationally and first in the ACC (95.31).

Tonight’s game against Cal was Clemson’s first visit to the West Coast since the ACC’s westward expansion. It will be Clemson’s fourth game in California history on Friday. Still, one of the program’s most memorable games was Clemson’s most recent one in California. Clemson won its third national championship on January 7, 2019, when it defeated Alabama 44-16 in Santa Clara.

In the first quarter, the Golden Bears defense came up big on a play on Clemson’s quarterback, Tait Reynolds. Reynolds would throw his first and only interception to California defensive back Isaiah Crosby. This interception would be the first for Crosby in his collegiate career. Then the Tigers would prevent the Bears offense from scoring after the interception. However, Clemson QB Reynolds would get sacked by Aiden Manutai and lose the ball during the tackle. Bears Kamar Mothudi would pick up the football and run it in for a 35-yard touchdown, putting California on the scoreboard first, 7-0.

Second quarter, it would be an electric and explosive quarter for Clemson. Tigers field goal kicker Nolan Hauser would make a 30-yard field goal attempt and get Clemson their first points of the night, 7-3. After that, Clemson’s offense would have a 17-play offensive possession that would end with the Tigers scoring and taking up much of the clock in the second quarter. Tigers running back Gideon Davidson would score his first touchdown on a 1-yard rush to the end zone, giving Clemson the lead, 10-7.

At halftime, Clemson would hold over the Golden Bears 10-7. California’s offense would put up just 46 rushing yards and 47 passing yards. California’s quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele would also get sacked twice in the first half. Clemson’s offense put up 109 rushing yards and 70 passing yards.

Going into the third quarter, California’s field goal kicker Chase Meyer would make a 30-yard field goal and give Cal three more points, tying the game 10-10. This scoring possession would be the only and last scoring possession for California. On a punt return for Clemson, Tigers’ Bryant Wesco Jr. would return a 65-yard punt return for a touchdown. This gave the Tigers back the lead and changed the score to 17-10. Bryant’s punt return would be the first one for Clemson in eight years.

Late in the fourth and final quarter of the game, the Tigers were still giving it to the Bears. Both of these teams would combine for one offensive touchdown. With three minutes left, Clemson’s running back, Gideon Davidson, rushes in a 75-yard rushing touchdown. Davidson’s second rushing touchdown of the night sealed the deal as Clemson gets the win over California, 24-10.

Against Wagner, Sagapolutele finished 27 of 33 throws for a career-high 413 yards and three touchdowns. Since Jack Plummer threw for 406 yards against USC on November 5, 2022, he is the first Cal signal-caller to throw for at least 400 yards in a game. After his performance, he was named a Manning Star of the Week. But in this game, Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele ended up 16 for 29 for 119 yards and two interceptions for his fewest yards.

The California Golden Bears will hit the road to Sin City. The Bears will take on UNLV Rebels (1-2) in Las Vegas, Nevada, at Allegiant Stadium on October 3rd, 2026. The game will start at 12:30 p.m. and will be broadcast live on CBSSN. The last time the Bears and Rebels faced off was on December 18th, 2024, at the Art of Sport LA Bowl, Hosted By Gronk. The Rebels would get the win over the Bears, 24-13, and the all-time series is 1-1.

Cal gets first Win at home this season, beating Wagner Seahawks 49-7

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California Golden Bear running back (#24) Adam Mohammed stiff arms Wagner Seahawk defensive back (#18) Dashawn Long in a NCAA non-conference football game at Berkeley, California on Saturday, September 19th, 2026. (Photo credit to IMAGN IMAGES)

By Michael Villanueva

BERKELEY – California Golden Bears (2-1) got their first home win of the season after hosting and defeating Wagner Seahawks (1-3) 49-7. On a sunny Saturday afternoon in Berkeley, California, the Golden Bears returned back home after coming off their first road and conference win of the season against the Syracuse Oranges, 21-18. Golden Bear Kingston Lopa continues getting interceptions; last week Lopa had three interceptions, but in this game he would add more, which showed the Bears’ resilient defense. With big help on California’s offense. Especially Golden Bear quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele, who threw two touchdowns last week and threw three touchdown passes this week.

Coming into the game for the Seahawks, this was the two teams’ first time meeting for a football game. In general, the last time the Seahawks played football in California was in 2004 against San Diego. With Cal joining the ACC almost two years ago, this is the Seahawks’ fifth game ever against an ACC team. This game for Cal marks the second straight opponent coming from New York, first Syracuse and now Wagner.

Cal quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele would have himself a field day in this game. In the first three minutes, it would take Cal just seven plays to score. Jaron would make a fourteen-yard pass completion to his receiver Ian Strong. After that, Cal’s running back Adam Mohammed rushed right for a twenty-eight-yard gain for the first touchdown. Cal strikes first, 7-0. Then for the rest of the quarter, every time Cal’s offense was on the field, they would score. At the end of the first quarter, Cal would hold the lead over Wagner 29-0.

At the start of the second quarter, it would take Wagner twelve plays to finally get on the board. The Seahawks would get a big run play from their quarterback, Benjamin Newman. Newman would rush the middle for a twenty-three-yard gain on the carry. This would lead to Wagner’s eight-yard touchdown pass by Newman to Malik Redd on the front right side of the end zone. The score would still be in the Bears’ favor, 29-7. This touchdown possession was the only touchdown for the Seahawks the whole game.

After scoring twenty-nine points in the first quarter, Cal would score just ten points in the second quarter. Wagner’s defense would build some momentum from their offense scoring, and in Cal’s next offensive possession, they would hold the Bears to a field goal instead of a touchdown. Cal’s field goal in the beginning of the second quarter would make the score 32-7. At halftime, California would push the lead by thirty-two points over Wagner, 39-7.

Starting the third quarter, the Bears would march down the field. Starting off with a nineteen-yard pass from Cal’s QB Jaron to Ian Strong on the left side of the field. Then again, Cal’s QB Jaron would connect with Chase Hendricks on a thirty-one-yard pass on the left side. Ultimately setting up Cal’s running back Ashten Emory for an eight-yard rushing touchdown, pushing the score to 46-7. This would lead to the final quarter of the game.

In the fourth quarter, Cal would make a thirty-seven-yard field goal by Chase Meyer, making the score 49-7. Other than that, that would be the last scoring sequence in the game and would be the final score of the game. California would score six touchdowns and rack up 626 total yards. Cal’s QB Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele threw for a career-high 413 yards and three touchdowns. The Bears would score on right of their 11 drives.

Coming up next for the Golden Bears, California will stay at home and host the Clemson Tigers on Friday, September 25th, at the California Memorial Stadium in Berkeley, California. The game will be broadcast live on ESPN. This game will also be the Bears’ second conference matchup this season.

Bears Pull Off Upset Over Syracuse 21-18

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Cal Bears quarterback Jaron-KeaweSagapolutele (3) takes the football for a keeper against the Syracuse Orange defense at the GMA Wireless Dome in Syracuse NY on Sat Sep 12, 2026 (Cal Bears photo)

By Barbara Mason

Saturday afternoon the California Bears (1-1) traveled to JMA Wireless Dome in a week two matchup with the Syracuse Orange (1-1). The Cal Bears (1-1) running back Adam Mohammed to lead the ground game with 19 carries for 74 yards and the Orange running back freshman Shavane Anderson carried nine times for 18 yards as the Bears picked up their first win with a 21-18 win.

In a scare in last week’s game, Cal quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele hurt his ankle in last week’s loss to UCLA. He was a bit off in that game after the injury was ready in Saturday’s game. Syracuse quarterback Steve Angeli returned after a torn achilles ended last season’s campaign. He was back, healthy and ready to roll passed for 306 yards, one touchdown and was intercepted three times.

The Cal defense kept this game manageable keeping Syracuse out of the end zone in the opening quarter. The Orange were able to score a field goal with Tripp Woody kicking a 25 yarder taking a 3-0 lead onto the second quarter. The Orange would kick a second field goal in the second quarter taking a 6-0 lead. Syracuse scored the first touchdown of the game taking a 12-0 lead when the 2-point conversion failed.

Cal scored their first touchdown of the day in the second quarter driving downfield finishing with a 14 yard pass from Sagapolutele to Chase Hendricks at 7:15 followed by a successful extra point and the score was 12-7 in favor of the Orange going into halftime.

The Bears turned the ball over on downs at mid-field to start the third quarter. The ensueing Syracuse drive was stalled when Cal intercepted an Angeli pass and very nearly took it into the end zone. They started their drive deep in Orange territory finishing it off with a 2-yard touchdown taking their first lead of the game 14-12. The Orange took back the lead 18-14 with 1:38 left in the quarter.

Going into the fourth quarter it was a 4-point ball game. It was all Cal in the final quarter, the Orange unable to score. Kingston Lopia had his second interception of the game taking it into the end zone for a pick-six.

GAME RECAP

The Syracuse Orange took an early 3-0 lead in the first quarter of the game. Tripp Woody kicked a 25 yard field goal but the remainder of the quarter was a quiet one for the Cal offense.

Their defense was able to keep the Orange out of the end zone keeping this game extremely manageable but the offense was struggling both on the ground and in the air. Adam Mohammed had been unable to get going and Keawe Sagapolutele was also struggling.

Syracuse’s offense turned the heat up in the second quarter. They again scored an early field goal in the quarter. At 14:44 Woody scored a 33-yard field goal and the Orange had a 6-0 lead.

The first touchdown of the game was scored at 8:50 extending the Syracuse lead to 12-0. Steve Angeli threw a 23 yard pass to Daunte Bacheyie for the score but the 2-point attempt failed.

Mid-way through the quarter the Bears answered back as Sagapolutele completed three passes in the drive. Sagapolutele completed a 45-yard pass to Ian Strong moving Cal to the Orange 33-yd line and the Bears were in business. He completed a 14 yard pass to Chase Hendricks for their first touchdown of the game and Cal was on the scoreboard.

With two minutes left in the first half, Cal drove from their own 27-yard line deep into Syracuse territory. With two minutes left in the quarter then Bears were operating from the Orange 37 yard-line.

Cal could not advance the ball and the Orange took over with 1:41 left in half. Syracuse got hit with an unsportsmanlike penalty their second of the day pinning them on their own 9-yard line. With 1:22 left on the clock the Bears took over on their own 40 yard-line still with three time-outs.

They would drive down to the Syracuse 37-yard line. They squandered two time outs and a first down was foiled by a penalty and that would close out the drive. The Orange would take the 12-7 lead into the third quarter.

California would keep this game a one-score game thanks to another Orange penalty that negated a 71-yard return in the closing minute of the second quarter. The Bears had avoided falling even further behind and penalties were hurting Syracuse. Cal had to get their playmakers going in the second half.

The Bears would start the third quarter on their 25-yard line. They turned the ball over on downs at midfield and Syracuse was back in business. Angeli would throw an interception and Cal very nearly took the ball the length of the field.

A touchdown saving tackle set the Bears up deep in Syracuse territory. Cal was knocking on the door, threatening to take the lead, first and goal from the one yard. The interception had led to their first lead of the game 14-12 when Sagapolutele completed a two yard pass to Jordan King, and Cal had their second touchdown of the day. As the third quarter wound down the Orange’s Ju Juan Johnson rushed for two yards with a two-point conversion again failing giving Syracuse the lead back 18-14.

The Orange drove deep into Cal territory to start the fourth quarter. Syracuse went on fourth and one and it looked as if the Bears had recovered a fumble but was called for 12-men on the field and the Orange were looking for more points. The Bears not only kept them out of the end zone but also denied them a 31-yard field goal and the score remained 14-12 with a lot of time, 9:30, remaining in the game.

The Bears had a great drive going in the fourth quarter but stalled out when Sagapolutele was sacked for a nine yard loss and they were forced to kick pinning Syracuse inside their 15.

A Cal pick six on an Angeli pass gave the Bears a 21-18 lead with 4:51 left in the game. The interception did not deter Angeli who drove downfield completing 3 passes operating from the Cal 24-yard line with 2:00 left on the clock.

Another missed field goal for the Orange and Cal had a very real chance to win this game. It was up to the defense to put this one away and that’s exactly what they did intercepting the ball for a third time shutting down Syracuse in a wild and wooly game 21-18. They were physical and tough defensively and despite some really down moments in the first half they persevered. Head Coach Tosh Lupoi had his first win.

GAME NOTES

Cal played a mixed but encouraging first half of football. While they did trail 12-7 at the half, this game was still very much within reach. They had started slowly but settled down and scored a touchdown in the second quarter keeping themselves in the game. They did miss scoring opportunities when they missed a 47-yard field goal in the first half as well as stalling out in Syracuse territory.

This was new Head Coach Tosh Lupoi’s first win at the helm. This was actually a bit of a slopping game for both teams. Angeli threw three interceptions which paved the way for the Bears. The Orange finished the game with 15 penalties which hampered them the entire game.

Cal showed amazing resilience in this game and the defense came up huge forcing the three interceptions two of them by safety Kingston Lopa. Sagapolutele had a far improved game over last week throwing for 182 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions.

Great decision-making on his part. Cal did get stronger as the game went on scoring in the second, third and fourth quarters. Syracuse was held scoreless in the final quarter. When you look at the stats, the Orange dominated the yardage with 436 yards to the Bears 247.

The bottom line is that it was the defense that won this game for the Bears. The offense had some trouble sustaining drives failing to cash in on some scoring opportunities but when push came to shove they also showed resilience. Things are looking up for the California Bears.

Next Saturday the Bears will take on Wagner at California Memorial Stadium. This will be the team’s home opener. Kickoff is scheduled for 12:30 PM.

UCLA Bruins beat Cal Golden Bears in season home-opener, 45-24

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California Golden Bear quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele (#3) avoids the UCLA Bruins’ defense and throws an 8-yard touchdown pass to Mason Mini in Week 1 of an NCAA football game on Saturday, September 5th, 2026, at California Memorial Stadium in Berkeley, CA. (Photo credit Michael Villanueva)

By Michael Villanueva

BERKELEY – A historic rivalry that began in 1993 and continues to this day. The matchup is known by many names: the Bear Bowl, the Sibling Rivalry, or even another variation of “NorCal vs SoCal”. This game was the home opener for Cal Berkeley as the UCLA Bruins visited the California Golden Bears, starting both teams’ 2026-27 NCAA football season in week 1. This sold-out Saturday night football game had the California Memorial Stadium at maximum capacity. This is Cal and UCLA’s 95th matchup of all-time. UCLA Bruins lead the series at 58-35-1. Last time the UCLA Bruins were in Berkeley, UCLA would get the win over Cal 35-28. However, in the last matchup, it was the Golden Bears getting the win over the Bruins 33-7 in Pasadena. Ultimately, tonight, it would be the UCLA Bruins (1-0) getting the victory on the road over the California Golden Bears (0-1) 45-24.

Both of these schools came into this game with new head coaches. Tosh Lupoi was announced as the Travers Family Head Football Coach of the Bears on Dec. 4, 2025. Lupoi won a pair of national championships during a five-year stint at Alabama, where he served as an outside linebackers coach and defensive coordinator, in addition to five conference championships (4 SEC, 1 Big 10). He is the 35th head coach in Cal football program history. Bob Chesney was hired as the 20th head coach in UCLA football history on Dec. 6, 2025. He arrives in Westwood after two successful seasons at James Madison from 2024-25, guiding the Dukes to a 21-6 record and numerous historic firsts.

The Golden Bears scored the first touchdown of the night and their season. Cal’s quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele gets a short pass to the left for a 9-yard touchdown to Chase Hendricks. Sagapolutele picked up where he left off last season in his freshman year. Sagapolutele completed 316-of-492 passes for 3,454 yards with 18 touchdown throws and nine interceptions while starting all 13 games in 2025. He was only the second true freshman to be named the Bears’ starting quarterback for a season opener and the first since Jared Goff arrived in Berkeley in 2013, on his way to becoming the No. 1 overall NFL draft pick in 2016.

On UCLA’s first offensive drive, they responded. The Bruins would get on the board by their quarterback, Nico Lamaleave. Lamaleave would do a fake handoff and keep the ball to run in a 9-yard touchdown. After that, the game would be tied at 7-7, halfway through the 1st quarter. Nico Iamaleava is back for his second season at UCLA. The Long Beach, Calif., native led the Bruins in rushing yards (505), carries (112), and rushing touchdowns (4) in addition to throwing for 1,928 yards and 13 touchdowns on 208 of 323 passes.

UCLA and California’s defense have been stellar throughout the first half. It wouldn’t be until three minutes into the second quarter that Cal would add more points on the scoreboard. Cal’s kicker Town McGough would make a 28-yard field goal to give the Golden Bears the lead, 10-7. After that, UCLA’s offense would catch Cal’s defense and score on back-to-back offensive possessions. UCLA running back Anthony Woods would rush for a 31-yard touchdown to give UCLA their first lead of the night, 10-14.

After UCLA’s defense held Cal’s offense. The Bruins would march down the field and score again on another rushing touchdown from Wayne Knight’s 8-yard run. The lead would go by 11 points for UCLA over California at 10-21. Then with three and a half minutes left, Cal is looking to score before halftime, but UCLA’s defense would have something to say. Cal quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele would get sacked and lose the ball during that, and UCLA’s Amier Washington would recover the fumble.

However, with fifty-one seconds left of the second quarter, the Golden Bears weren’t gonna let this game get out of control. UCLA quarterback Nico Lamaleava would throw an interception to Cal’s defensive back, Kingston Lopa. Giving the ball back to Cal with less than a minute. However, that’s all the time Cal would need to get themselves back in the game. With the ball at the 8-yard line, Sagapolutele would throw an 8-yard touchdown pass to Mason Mini to cut the lead to 4 points, 17-21.

With just two seconds left, UCLA would be able to get into field goal range and add three more points to the lead before halftime, 17-24. UCLA’s running game has been big for them in their Week 1 matchup. The Bruins were able to put up 123 rushing yards compared to the Golden Bears’ 34 rushing yards. These two sophomore quarterbacks have displayed that they could throw the ball and find their targets. UCLA would be able to finish the first half going 12-for-18 on passing, while California went 15-for-32 in their passing.

Heading into the third quarter, Cal took advantage of the game clock and emphasized it with a touchdown. The Golden Bears had the ball for basically the entire third quarter; they were on offense for over 11 minutes. Cal would march down the field and end the drive on a 1-yard touchdown from running back Adam Mohammed. That touchdown would tie the game and head into the final quarter.

Going into the final quarter of the game, with the score tied, the Golden Bears had the ball, and with ten minutes left, it was perfect for Cal to strike. However, UCLA’s defense would come up big for the Bruins. Cal quarterback Sagapolutele would throw two interceptions in the final minutes, and UCLA would capitalize on his mistakes. The first interception from the Bruins would follow up on a 31-yard rushing touchdown by Wayne Knight, 31-24. Then Sagapolutele would hop on the field to throw his second interception. Which, again, would lead to another UCLA touchdown by Wayne Knight, again, for his 3rd rushing touchdown of the night, 38-24.

With one minute and twenty seconds left, UCLA Bruins weren’t done with the Golden Bears. Bruins running back Anthony Woods would rush in a touchdown for 53 yards. The score would now go to 45-24. After that, it would be the Bruins doing the last dance on the field as UCLA wins the game, 45-24. UCLA Bruins would score 21 points alone in the fourth quarter.

After this crushing loss to the UCLA Bruins. The California Golden Bears are gonna hit the road for their next game. They’ll be facing the Syracuse Orange in Syracuse, New York. Syracuse got their win in week 1 against the New Hampshire Wildcats, 66-3. The game will be broadcast live on the ACC Network at 12:30 p.m.

Cal Berkeley Golden Bears Football Media Day: Bears head coach Lupoi meets the press

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Cal Berkeley’s football head coach Tosh Lupoi at the podium, discussing expectations for the upcoming Golden Bears football season at California Memorial Stadium on Tuesday, August 4th, 2026, in Berkeley, California. (Photo credit Michael Villanueva-SRS)

By Michael Villanueva

BERKELEY – “Give me a C!, C!, give me a A!, A!, give me a L!, L!, what’s that spell? CAL!” On a nice Tuesday afternoon, the University of California, Berkeley welcomed everyone back to the California Memorial Stadium for the football team’s Media Day. The school revealed some new eateries coming to the season, head coach Tosh Lupoi shared some insight on himself and the team, and brought out players to talk and discuss the upcoming season and expectations.

The season starts one month from today. The Golden Bears are getting ready for their camp, staying sharp on their academics, and embracing the new culture from their former defensive coordinator to their new head coach, Tosh Lupoi. Coach Lupoi and the players came into their media day, practically ready and wanting the season to start now.

With Cal bringing in new players from the portal, this year is the most players the team got from the portal (38 players). It was only right that the Golden Bears bring in new eateries for their fans and all who come to their games. Starting the eateries, the Golden Bears introduced their new ‘OG Salt and Pepper Smoked Brisket with house-made sweet & spicy pickles’. They also showed and debuted their new vegetarian item, the Edamame Dumplings. Fans can grab these items at the stadium and cheer on their Bears as they fight for the win.

After that, Cal Berkeley brought out head coach Tosh Lupoi to the podium for his press conference. Coach Lupoi remained resilient and fired up for the season. He talked about how he prepares his players to become the best version of themselves, whether that’s being a player or just themselves. He also talked about his old defensive coordinator mentality and transferring that to the head coach role.

“To win every battle that is approaching and present,” said head coach Tosh Lupoi. Coach Lupoi would later on and explain how he wants his players to stay focused in every circumstance. Through the ups and downs of Cal football history. He wants his players to always be in the moment and to come out victorious. He understands the struggles and circumstances that will come with it being his first year as a head coach at Cal.

Coach Lupoi’s impact on Cal has already played a big factor. Especially when it came to the players in the portal choosing Cal to continue their education and play football. “Coach Lupoi’s legacy and what he brings to the table is why I chose Cal,” said linebacker Solomon Williams. Williams had spent two seasons at Texas A&M before choosing Cal to play at in the portal.

The players are getting ready to head to the camp. Some of the players are already wanting to suit up and play for Cal. “I’m excited to play week 1 because that’s what sets the tone and our expectations, especially getting the win… getting the win would most definitely set everything in the right direction,” said linebacker Jayden Wayne. So with that, it’s safe to say that Cal football is back and ready to get California Memorial Stadium rocking again.

The California Golden Bears will start off the season in week 1 hosting a familiar school, the UCLA Bruins. The Golden Bears and the Bruins share a long history, especially since these two schools used to be in the same conference, the Pac-12. A “Battle of the West Coast California” will start off the season for coach Lupoi and the Bears. Last year Cal went 7-6, and with new leadership, players, and mentality. This year’s squad looks ready and determined to put up a better record. This game will be on Saturday, September 5th, right back here in the stadium at 7:30 p.m. The game will be broadcast on ESPN.

SJU comeback from 19 points, Heads to Quarterfinals in NIT, Bears lose in 2nd Round, 76-75

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California Golden Bear guard (#1) DeJuan “DJ” Campbell shoots a turnaround jumper in the 1st half in a NIT Second round game against the Saint Joseph Hawks at Haas Pavilion on March 22nd, 2026, in Berkeley, Calif. (Photo Credits to Michael Villanueva)

By Michael Villanueva

BERKELEY – After defeating the UIC Flames just 4 days ago, the Bears’ spirits were high and golden in Berkeley. However, all of that would change when Saint Joseph Hawks came into the Haas Pavilion. After being down 19 points with just 12 minutes left in the game. The Hawks would somehow and someway find a way to win again, on the road in the NIT, and defeat the Golden Bears, 76-75. Ending the Golden Bears’ postseason journey in their own home and getting a trip to the quarterfinals of the NIT.

This was the Golden Bears’ last home game of the season. If they had won, they would’ve faced New Mexico as their quarterfinal opponent in the NIT. The Lobos were ranked higher than the Bears; the first 3 rounds of NIT play are at the higher-ranked seeds’ home. However, it’ll be the Hawks heading to New Mexico. Again, the Golden Bears end their last home game of the season in a loss.

Saint Joseph is one of the five Atlantic 10 conference teams in the NIT. Coming into the game, the Hawks’ overall record in the NIT was 17-18 and is now 18-18. SJU has had one incredible season this year, so with that, the team sent out the starters they trust for this round. They started Derek Simpson, Dasear Haskins, Jaden Glover-Toscano, Austin Williford, and Justice Ajogbor. Toscano would lead the Hawks at halftime with 11 points and 5 rebounds.

California switched up its roster with a small change. The Golden Bears started with Justin Pippen, Dai Dai Ames, Nolan Dorsey, Chris Bell, and Lee Dort. Cal forward John Camden, who is usually in the starting lineup, is out with a foot injury. Cal guard Dai Dai Ames would have himself a game. Halfway through the 2nd half, Ames would join the 1,000th career point club.

The Hawks started the game off on fire. They would score the first basket and then start after that on a 7-0 scoring run. The Bears had a rocky start on their shooting and didn’t get on the board until 4 minutes after tip-off. So Saint Joseph did their best to use the Bears’ shots not going in to their advantage. They were able to build a lead to 16-8 by 7 minutes into the game.

Eventually, Cal’s shooting would start to knock down some shots and eventually build a big momentum for them. Especially on their 3-point shooting. The Bears would end the half shooting 35% from deep on 7-of 19. This was the Bears 2nd time in their 2nd game of the NIT for them to make six or more three-pointers in the first half. A great shooting stat line for them, as it proves why the Bears were able to finish the first half great in the two games of NIT play.

Cal guard Dai Dai Ames makes a big play for the team and the fans as he saves the ball from going out of bounds, lost his balance grabbing the ball while a defender is on him, then gains his rebalance with a crossover move to get pass his defender and beaten the buzzer on a midrange shot to give the fans excited for the 2nd half with a 8-point lead. California Golden Bears led the Hawks at halftime, 41-33.

The 2nd half was simply a “bear attack” on the Hawks. Seven minutes into the final half, the Bears saw their largest lead with 19 points, the score was 61-42. California was loving the home court advantage in the NIT play, as to a certain extent. The team just couldn’t miss a shot as they were shooting above 60% in all categories at the last half. Especially the Bears shooting 5-of-7 from deep in only the 2nd half.

Saint Joseph in the final 8 minutes of the game made their last attempt to comeback in this game. As Cal would miss a few shots after their hot run, the Hawks would make big shots and put in a lot of their efforts in the small plays to cut the lead. They brought the lead back to 11 points.

For 4 minutes, the Hawks would go on a 12-4 scoring run, and that scoring run was huge for them. Saint Joseph brought this game with 4 points. SJU would make 4 of their last 5 shot attempts to help position themselves for the lead. Although it was a great effort, especially when your season is on the line. The Hawks were able to bring it to 1, by a huge three-pointer from Hawks Austin Williford, 74-73 with 2 minutes remaining.

SJU Derek Simpson makes a game-changer three-pointer and gives the Hawks the lead by 1 point, 76-75. Making the Bears call a timeout with 44 seconds. Simpson’s shot would ultimately seal the game as the in the Bear’s last effort. Cal guard Dai Dai Ames would drive into the basket for a layup, but was blocked by Hawks Jaden Glover-Toscano. Ending the game with a final score of 76-75.

Cal was led by Chris Bell with his 23 points and 4 rebounds. 8 points shy from his previous career high (31), which he had just scored on their last game against UIC. So a great consistency performance for the senior. He would also have 12 three-pointers made in just the last 2 games he played in.

As this wasn’t ideal or expected for the Golden Bears men’s basketball season to end like this. This squad has so much to be proud of in a spectacular season they had. We thank you to all of our fans, viewers, subscribers, and, of course, the California Golden Bears for giving us another amazing season of NCAA Men’s basketball play.

Cal Bears podcast Michael Villanueva: Cal wins first NIT game after 12 years of waiting defeat UIC 91-73

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Cal Bears center Milos Illic (8) takes a shot against the UIC Flames forward Mekhi Lowrey (22) and forward Abdul Momoh (7) in the first half at Haas Pavilion in Berkeley on Wed Mar 18, 2026 (photo by Michael Villanueva)

Cal Bears podcast Michael Villanueva:

#1 Michael, this was a game that Cal Bears forward Chris Bell finished 31 poins he ran the ball leading in scoring for Cal at times a close game but how much was it based on Bell’s performance that helped Cal pull this out against the UIC Flames?

#2 Bell also was effective from the free thow line in a game where every basket was crucial.

#3 Talk about John Camden who finished third in scoring with 13 points he also help Cal in this game with with three 3 pointers.

#4 Justin Pippin finished second in scoring with 18 points he’s been key all season long but in an important NIT game he’s was someone coach Mark Madson could rely on for the clutch shot.

#5 Cal returns to Haas Pavilion Sunday to face off for the second round of these NIT Tournament games it never gets easier as you move up in the NIT rounds as they face the St Joseph Hawks.

Michael Villanueva is Cal Bears basketball podcast contributor at http://www.sportsradioservice.com

Golden Bears Tame the UIC Flames in their Return to the NIT in 9 years, 91-73

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California Golden Bear forward (#22) Chris Bell shots a midrange jumper in the 1st half of an NIT 1st Round Game in the New Mexico Bracket Region at Berkeley in Haas Pavilion on March 18th, 2026. (Photo Credits to Michael Villanueva)

By Michael Villanueva

BERKELEY – The Golden Bears aren’t done! Cal’s regular season might’ve ended, but something bigger, exciting, and thrilling has come to their home, postseason action! Berkeley was invited to play in the National Invitational Tournament (NIT) and is being identified as one of the four power conference teams in this tournament. They hosted the University of Illinois Chicago Flames at the Haas Pavilion at 8 p.m. Not only was the sun shining on the Bears this spring, but also to the flames. As this was the Golden Bears 10th appearance in the NIT, with their last appearance being 9 years. While this was the Flames 2nd ever appearance in this tournament dating back to their first time in 23 years (2003). This first round action was intense, going back and fourth, making each possession count, but with homecourt advantage here in Berkeley. The Golden Bears would win the one in the first round, 91-73

After losing their last two games, the Bears were given a chance to continue their basketball season in the NIT. Their most recent loss was back in the ACC Tournament on March 11th, 2026 against Florida State, 95-89. Before that they lost also on March 7th, 2026 at Wake Forest, 80-73. A rocky ending the Bears didn’t wanna go through, but due to their impressive season history and having standout wins against certain schools. The Golden Bears were gifted with postseason play in the spring. A chance for the Bears to truly make this season a memorable and winning one. Although, In a 10 game span, the Golden Bears went 5-5. They came back home Wednesday

The Golden Bears went with Chris Bell, Justin Pippen, Dai Dai Ames, John Camden, Lee Dort as their starting five. Dai Dai Ames and Justin Pippen were named All-ACC, with their respective choices to the All-ACC Third Team and All-ACC Honorable Mention,. Cal’s first 20-win season since 2016–17 and its No. 9 seed in last week’s ACC Tournament are largely due to the two Bear guards. Haas Pavilion has been proven to be one of toughest for visitors to play as this squad went 16-4 in their home.

Five schools from the Missouri Valley Conference are competing in the postseason, including UIC. A record-breaking four MVC teams—UIC, Bradley, Illinois State, and Murray State—as well as NCAA qualifying UNI qualified for this year’s NIT play. So with that the Flames started with Elijah Crawford, Rashund Washington Jr., Abdul Momoh, Andy Johnson, and Mekhi Lowery.

Chris Bell hits a corner three-pointer to get this 1st round of an NIT game started here in Berkeley. However the Flames brought the physical play and toughness to them while they tried getting the bear’s out of their game. In the first 5 minutes of play, UCI holds the lead, 13-6, making the Bears give up 4 turnovers already and putting them in a 3 minute scoring drought. A shaky start for the home team while the visiting team goes on a 9-0 scoring run.

Cal guard Dejuan Campbell hits two back-to-back three pointers, giving Cal some scoring relief and go on a 6-0 scoring run. However UIC defense came to play as they force two turnovers on Cal. It took almost the whole 1st half for the Bears to lock in and get serious at the game. Big plays were made by both teams, going back and fourth in the 1st. However Cal would make 5 out of their 7 shot attempts and give them the lead at half, 39-35.

Both of these schools are shooting exactly at 50% at the end of the 1st. UIC would hold the lead for 16 minutes in the 1st half. The Flames really wanted to set a tone in the 1st half, and for the most part they did. However the Bears were able to pull through and create some turnovers on UIC. Giving a big momentum switch to Cal. at the end of the 1st half.

However the Flames would show out in the beginning of the second half and make their first 4 straight shots, going on a 6-0 scoring run and giving them back the lead, 43-41. Just right after their 4th shot, Cal Golden Bear Chris Bell gets fouled shooting a three pointer and gets sent to the line and makes all three of his shots. Then right after in their next possession, he would hit another three pointer. Giving Cal an extended lead, 47-43.

The Bears shooting came out as the team would go on another 6-0 scoring run, by hitting back-to-back three pointers. 6 minutes already into the game and Cal has made 4 big time three pointers that were vital for them in this game. As the shots kept coming down for Cal, out of their last 5 three point shot attempts, they’ve made 4 of them. So it was full throttle for UIC to get back in this game. They were able to make 6 out of their last 8 shot attempts to bring them back within 6 points, 68-62. UIC would also dominate in the paint as they scored 42 points down there compared to Cal’s 18 points in the paint.

Entering the last 6 minutes of the game, Cal would see it’s largest lead against UIC with 13 points, 77-64. This was due to the Bears making all of their last 5 shooting attempts. With their hot shooting, the Bears would ultimately seal the game. Cal would go on to make 9 three-pointers in the half compared to them making 6 three-pointers in the 1st half. The Bears prove they can shoot the ball well in their home court. Especially to Cal forward Chris Bell who went off and went 7-8 on three-pointers. His efforts and hot shooting was a big factor for the Bears first NIT win in 12 years (2014). Chris Bell would also get a career high with 31 points, 3 rebounds, and 1 assist. Bears also would go and score 52 points in the second half.

California Golden Bears will have a possible chance to host two more rounds of NIT play in the Haas Pavilion. Since they were able to win the first round game and move on to the second round. They’re next matchup will be the Saint Joseph Hawks as they took down Colorado State 69-64, in the New Mexico Bracket. The game will be on Sunday March 22nd, 2026 in Berkeley right back in the Haas Pavilion.