Category: Cal Bears

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.

Pittsburg Stuns California on their Senior Day and Home finale, 72-56!!

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California Golden Bear (#7) guard Dai Dai Ames shoots a corner three-pointer over Pittsburg Panther (#8) guard Omari Witherspoon on February 28th, 2026, in Berkeley, California, at the Haas Pavilion. (Photo credits to Michael Villanueva)

By Michael Villanueva

BERKELEY – California played its last home game of the season on Saturday afternoon, hosting the Pittsburg Panthers on the Golden Bears’ Senior Day. A goodbye to their seniors, the fans who always came to the games, and to the “Haas of Pain.” This game is potentially a big one for Cal, as a win could solidify their chances of making it to the NCAA March Madness tournament. This game also meant a lot to Pittsburg as their fighting for the last seed in their conference tournament. So with that, both teams came out fighting, but the Panthers would be able to endure the “Haas of Pain” and win the game by 16 points, 72-56.

The last time the Panthers and the Golden Bears ran into each other was on January 1st, 2025, in Pittsburg. The game would go to the Panthers, 86-74. The all-time series between these two schools is 2-2, so a win today will give the lead to either of them. California entered this game riding a three-game winning streak; their most recent win was three days ago against SMU, 73-69. However, the Golden Bears aren’t too golden as they lost the last two recent matchups to Pittsburg in a row. After todays game, California would now have dropped the last 3 games in a row to Pittsburgh.

California started with a familiar lineup we’ve all seen. The Golden Bears went with guards Justin Pippen, Dai Dai Ames, and forwards John Camden, Chris Bell, and Lee Dort. Lee Dort was out on injury for seven games, but made his return in the Bears’ last game against the SMU Mustangs. California honored seven graduating Bears before the game in a Senior Day ceremony. The graduating Bears were DeJuan Campbell, John Camden, Milos Ilic, Nolan Dorsey, Chris Bell, Rytis Petraitis, and Lee Dort.

The Panthers came into the Pavilion with forwards Roman Siulepa, Cameron Corhen, and guards Omari Witherspoon, Damarco Minor, and Barry Dunning Jr. Pittsburg senior Cameron Corhen has been on a run lately, averaging 19.3 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 4 assists in their last three games. They also sit on a three-way tie with Notre Dame and Boston College for the last spot in the upcoming ACC Tournament.

With the crowd on their feet and ready to cheer on the Bears. Pittsburgh Panthers guard Damarco Minor would hit a three-pointer, followed right up by a fastbreak dunk. This quick 5-0 scoring run would quite the fans for now. Eventually, Lee Dort would get the Bears on the board with a quick layup inside the paint.

In the first 10 minutes of play, Cal was having a rough start in the afternoon with already having 6 turnovers. While Pittsburg just had 1 turnover, and was shooting well on the court to back up their lead. The Panthers were shooting 43% while the Bears were at a low 37%. The score was 7-14, but Bear Dejuan Campbell scored 5 points by himself in 5 minutes to bring the score to 12-14.

Guard Dejuan Campbell’s impact in the 1st half sparked the Golden Bears to lock in and focus on the team’s last home game. The Bears would finish the first half with 12 turnovers, and gave up 14 points in those turnovers. However, the Bears’ shooting brought them closer. As they never had the lead at all during the game, but that would change in the 2nd half.

At halftime, the Golden Bears were down to the Panthers 34-26. Dejuan would lead the Bears with 8 points in his 9 minutes of playing time. His impact and presence on the court was a big factor for the Bears to come back and win this game. His ability to be ready at all times and at anytime proves how valuable their bench is. The Bears’ bench would go and put up 12 points in the 1st half.

The Panthers again would get the half going off another three-pointer from Damarco Minor. Then Golden Bear forward Chris Bell would get a three-pointer to fall right after Minor’s shot. Cal is entering this half playing catch-up to Pittsburgh. With 10 minutes into play, nothing much has changed. The Bears would be able to hit some shots, then eventually go on multiple scoring droughts. Which was really slowing down their comeback. The score is now 52-44, Panthers hold a 8 point lead.

With 4 minutes left, the Bears are starting to run out, and safe to say Dai Dai Ames is on it. Ames drives to the paint for a layup, getting fouled, and knocking down his free throw for a three-point play. His efforts, trying to somehow get the Bears going and the crowd back in the game wasn’t enough. Especially the Panthers going on a 7-0 scoring run right after that. Pushing Pittsburgh’s lead to 14 points in this timeframe.

Although the results weren’t what the Bears and their fans were expecting. The graduating bears and players put on one last show in their home. They were lead by Dai Dai Ames with 11 points and 2 rebounds. On the other side of the bench, Pittsburgh Panthers forward Barry Dunning Jr would put up a double-double in Berkeley’s home finale.

The California Golden Bears have two more games left in the season, but will be on the road. Their first stop will be against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets on March 4th, then they will end their season against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons on March 7th. These last few games will project the Golden Bears’ chances for the NCAA March Madness tournament and their seeding placement in the ACC Tournament.

Cal Bears podcast Michael Villanueva: Cal picks up 20th win and third straight win over SMU

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Cal Bears guard Justin Pippin (10) takes a jump shot against the SMU Mustangs at Haas Pavilion in Berkeley on Wed Feb 25, 2026 (photo by Michael Villanueva-Sports Radio Service)

Cal Bears podcast Michael Villanueva:

#1 Michael a real nailbiter right down to the end and the Cal Bears Justin Pippin put the final touches with two free throws that keyed it for Cal with 12 second left in the game to give Cal a 72-69 lead and the win.

#2 SMU Mustangs came in the challenger with the same identicial record as Cal at 19-8 but it was the Bears who stayed ahead of the Mustangs for most of the game to come away with a three point win.

#3 Pippin who got those two final free throws also led Cal in socring with 24 points the Mustangs just couldn’t contain him on defense.

#4 Michael, the Bears Chris Bell followed finishing second in scoring with 20 points Bell was also intrumental coming away with Cal’s 20th win on the 25-26 campaign.

#5 Next up for Cal the Pitt Panthers who got beat by Stanfordo on Wednesday night 75-67 at Stanford. The Panthers are now 10-18 a struggling bunch who come to Haas Pavilion on Saturday for a 1:00pm matinee. Cal is on a roll they have won three in a row as Cal head coach Mark Madson picks up his first career win against SMU.

Michael Villanuevea does the Cal Bears podcasts at http://www.sportsradioservice.com

Cal Bears Win 3 in a Row, as they Beat SMU Mustangs, 73-69

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California Golden Bear forward (#2) John Camden drives to the basket for the slam against SMU Mustangs in the Haas Pavilion on February 25th, 2026, at Berkeley, California. (Photo credits to Michael Villanueva)

By Michael Villanueva

BERKELEY – The California Golden Bears hosted the SMU Mustangs on Wednesday night at Haas Pavilion, four days after the Bears’ big win over their school rival, Stanford last Saturday. The final score of that game was 72-66, so the Golden Bears were ready to stay golden on their home court.

Cal did exactly that as they beat the SMU Mustangs, 73-69 on Wednesday night, Bears forward Chris Bell scored his third straight 20 points or more game this season doing it in 22 games.

The last time the Mustangs and the Bears faced off was on February 26th, 2025, in Berkeley as the Mustangs got the win, 81-77. For California head coach Mark Madsen he was looking for his first win against SMU. As the Bears trail in the all-time series with the Mustangs, 1-4, noting that Cal has lost the last four in a row to SMU. However, things can change in a year, and all that would change Wedneday as the Bears were able to defeat the Mustangs.

Over the last ten games, both schools went 6-4 and are right on each other’s tail as the season gets closer to its end. Prior to the game Cal was sitting in ninth place while the Mustangs were ahead of them in eighth place. So both schools came into Haas Pavilion determined to win and help their school rank as high as possible before the Men’s ACC basketball tournament, which starts on March 10th through the 14th.

Cal started with Dai Dai Ames, Justin Pippen, John Camden, Bell, and Milos Ilic. Ames is averaging 17.1 points and shooting 47.2%. Over the past ten games, Camden has made 3.3 3-pointers on average. Camden is also top-25 in the nation on his 3-point shooting percentage at 42.4%, along with Pippen being in the top-75 in the nation in steals at 1.84 per game.

For the Mustangs, Kevin Miller averages 18.7 points, 6.9 assists, and 1.8 steals. Over the past ten games, Jaron Pierre Jr. has averaged 18.2 points. The Mustangs’ starting five were B.J. Edwards, Boopie Miller, Corey Washington, Samet Yigitglu, and Jaron Pierre Jr. This is SMU’s only meeting with Berkeley this season.

Camden got the balling going with a jumper, followed by back to back three pointers from Bell. Bell’s last home game four days ago he dropped 20 points against Stanford.

After the first five minutes of play, the score was 13-9, and the Bears led over the Mustangs due to Bell’s hot start. Altogether, Cal has already made five 3 three pointers. Cal is shooting above 50% in all categories while the Mustangs are shooting below 44%. Also, for two minutes, the Mustangs went scoreless, which helped the Bears hold the lead.

Ten minutes into play Bell made a strong cut to the basket on the baseline for a layup, forcing SMU coach Andy Enfield to call a timeout. The Bears increased their lead by seven, the score is now 20-13. Again, the Mustangs found themselves in another scoring drought for two minutes and a half minutes, so the Bears kept taking advantage and taking it to them. Bell at 13 points, led the team early in this game.

At half, the Bears held onto the lead, 38-33. However, it got physical and chippy between the two clubs. Both teams are were shooting, playing, and statistically in the same play pool as each other. Bell is leading the Bears still, but with 15 points, two rebounds, and one assist. Cal is playing cautious and smart with the ball as they know the Mustangs thrive on turnovers, so they have limited their turnovers with just four in the first half, while the Mustangs had six turnovers.

Coming back from their lockers, Pippen hit a midrange jumper to break the ice and in the second half is when SMU got things going. Cal had gone through a scoring drought for three minutes. During that drought, the Mustangs fought their way back, going on a 7-0 scoring run. With 13 minutes remaining in the game, the Mustangs got their first lead of the night at 46-45. Pippen was able to record his 23rd double-digit point in 26 games.

In the final ten minutes, Cal’s shooting took a wrong turn, like in the final half. The Bears were able to just make two three pointers compared to their five in the first half.

Camden was able to get a bucket to make it a total of three, and give the Bears back the lead at 53-50. Cal and SMU continue to go at it and exchange buckets against each other. SMU made a three, but Cal came right down the court to hit a three and get their fans back into the game.

In the final two minutes of the game, SMU forward Corey Washington scored seven points on his own to give the Mustangs back the lead at 65-64. Pippen would hit a midrange jumper to get the lead back to put the Bears in front 68-67.

Then, later, after SMU couldn’t get a basket, Pippen smartly drew a foul to send him to the free-throw line. He would make both of them and push the lead by three points, 70-67. Cal would end up finishing and taking home the win.

Cal went onto another win on their home floor, as they and SMU switch places in the ACC standings. Cal picking up their 20th win and SMU taking their tenth loss.

The Golden Bears are now in eighth place while the Mustangs move down to the ninth seed. This win was also Cal head coach Mark Madsen’s first career win against SMU as Cal now jumps to three straight wins in a row.

The Bears will return right back in the Haas Pavilion on Saturday, Feb. 28th, 2026, at 1 p.m for Senior Day. Cal will host the Pittsburgh Panthers and hopefully look to take the lead in the all-time series lead which currently stands at 2-2. Pittsburgh has won the last two meetings over Cal.

Cal Falls to No. 20 Clemson 77–55 at Haas Pavilion on Rock Your Crocs Night

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California Golden Bear forward #22 Chris Bell shoots his 2nd free throw attempt with 7:37 remaining in the 1st half in the Haas Pavilion on Saturday evening on February 7th, 2026. (Photo Credits to Michael Villanueva)

By Michael Villanueva

BERKELEY – In front of an excited home crowd, the California Golden Bears played No. 20 Clemson on Saturday night at Haas Pavilion for Rock Your Crocs Night. However, after early signs of optimism, the Tigers easily won 77–55.

Cal came into the game having lost the previous two meetings and losing the all-time series versus Clemson 2–1. Tigers have made it three straight losses in a row. The conference matchup was made more interesting by the fact that, like Georgia Tech before them, this was Clemson’s first time visiting Haas Pavilion. The Tigers started with RJ Godfrey, Jestin Porter, Jake Wahlin, Ace Buckner, and Carter Welling, while the Golden Bears, with their starting five of John Camden, Chris Bell, Justin Pippen, Dai Dai Ames, and center Milos Ilic, took the floor.

Cal was prepared to make a statement first. Justin Pippen quickly ignited the fans with a driving layup after the Golden Bears won the tip. Cal made all three of the team’s shots, while Pippen and Chris Bell led the squad in the first few minutes, with Pippen scoring seven points without a miss and Bell adding six. whereas Clemson had a difficult start, missing multiple shots and committing two turnovers in a nearly four-minute stretch. Five minutes into the game, the Golden Bears had a 13–9 lead, and the crowd was loving it.

However, things suddenly changed quickly. The Bears committed four turnovers in just four minutes, which led to Cal’s offensive decline and allowed Clemson to gain the upper hand. As they found their groove, the Tigers played with accuracy, dishing out nine assists. Their bench also added 20 points, which increased the pressure. The game shifted in favor of Clemson after a 17–1 scoring run over almost ten minutes, as Cal missed 13 straight field goals, falling to 24 percent shooting in the first half. The Tigers’ defense forced nine turnovers, made four blocks, and recorded four steals, keeping Cal to 38 percent from three-point range and giving Clemson a dominating 39–20 advantage at halftime.

Pippen opened the second half by making a midrange jumper and turning the foul into a three-point play. Bell slowly started to find his stride and made back-to-back shots to give the Golden Bears some energy after a short scoring slump. However, Clemson kept their dominance. The Tigers led 56–41 with eight minutes left, and RJ Godfrey’s three-pointer off a foul put them ahead 59–41. Any Cal comeback attempts were consistently stopped by Clemson’s effective offense and defense, which included aggressive drives, rebounds, and smart fouls that sent them to the line.

After Cal missed another field goal going for three minutes, the Tigers took the lead by 24 points, and then the team went on a 9–0 run in two minutes late in the second half, leading fans to begin leaving Haas Pavilion with five minutes remaining. In the closing minutes, Cal coach Mark Madsen started to slowly remove his starters. Despite scoring 33 points in the second half, the Golden Bears were unable to overcome Clemson’s dominant performance. Tigers made 12 three pointers in this game, compared to the home team Bears, who only made 4 all game.

Milos Ilic pulled down a team-high eight rebounds and added two assists, while Justin Pippen led Cal with 19 points. This is Justin’s 20th game this season, scoring in double-digits.

In front of an energetic, Croc-loving home crowd, Clemson easily won the game 77–55, handing Cal a 22-point loss. After an early hot start, the Golden Bears found it difficult to recover from the Tigers’ strong offensive attack and defensive pressure. Clemson is in 2nd place, while the Cal Bears are in 10th place in their conference. Syracuse came into the West Coast and won their games, going 2-0 in the Bay.

In an attempt to bounce back from the hard loss at home, the Golden Bears will travel for their next two games, starting at 4 p.m. on February 11 against Syracuse, who are currently on a two-game losing skid, and Boston College at 9 a.m. on February 14.

Cal Bears podcast Michael Villanueva: Cal hangs onto beat Georgia Tech 90-85 Wednesday night

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Cal Bears center Milos Ilic takes the ball to the hoop being pursued by the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets guard Kam Craft (12) at Haas Pavilion in Berkeley on Wed Feb 4, 2026 (Cal Bears X photo)

Cal Bears podcast Michael Vilanueva Michael Villanueva:

#1 The Cal Bears (17-6) battled hard to stay ahead of the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (11-12) with a five point win 90-85 at Haas Pavilion on Wednesday night there was a lot of focus towards the end of the game as the Yellow Jackets were closing in the last few minutes of the game.

#2 Cal’s Dai Dai Ames led with 29 points in the win. Ames help keep the Bears in the contest in his contribution for the win.

#3 Which key statistical matchups will determine the outcome of the Georgia Tech vs. Cal game — for example, how might Cal’s experience at home and scoring differential compare with Georgia Tech’s rebounding strength?

#4 How significant is this game for Georgia Tech’s efforts to stop its recent losing streak and improve its position in ACC play?

#5 What strategies might each coach employ based on last season’s Georgia Tech win in overtime meeting and the current season’s performances of top players like Cal’s Dai Dai Ames and Georgia Tech’s Kowacie Reeves or Baye Ndongo?

Michael Villanueva covers the Cal Bears for http://www.sportsradioservice.com

Golden Bears Protect Their Cave Against Yellow Jackets, Final Score: 90-85 Cal Wins!

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California Golden Bear #7 Dai Dai Ames shoots a free throw after being fouled with 15:18 remaining in the Haas Pavilion at Berkeley, CA on February 4th, 2026. (Photo by Michael Villanueva)

By Michael Villanueva

BERKELEY – At Haas Pavilion on Wednesday night, the California Golden Bears defeated Georgia Tech 90-85. Cal improved its impressive home record to 14-2 after returning home from a conference game against Stanford and a split during last week’s two-game road trip in Florida.

With a 3-1 lead in the all-time series, Cal took on Georgia Tech for the fifth time in program history. The Yellow Jackets, however, had won the most previous game in Atlanta on February 15, 2025, 90-88 in overtime. Georgia Tech played its first game ever at Haas Pavilion on Wednesday.

Dai Dai Ames, Justin Pippen, John Camden, Chris Bell, and Milos Ilic were the Golden Bears’ starting lineup. Pippen had averaged 15 points, 4.4 assists, and two steals in the ten games leading up to this point, whereas Ames came into the game averaging 16.6 points per game for Cal.

Lamar Washington, Jaeden Mustaf, Kam Craft, Baye Ndongo, and Kowacie Reeves Jr. were the starting lineup for Georgia Tech. Reeves Jr. came into the game averaging 15.8 points per game for the Yellow Jackets, and Ndongo had averaged 12.9 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks in the ten games prior.

Besides the excitement on the court, the evening included Cal’s Coaches vs. Cancer campaign and Faculty and Staff Appreciation Night, which honored university community members throughout the evening.

Ames made the opening basket of the evening with a midrange jumper, giving Cal a confident start to the game. The Golden Bears relied largely on Ames, who scored 10 points in the first seven minutes on a perfect 4-of-4 shooting attempt and converted each of their first three field goal attempts.

Cal took an early 17–13 lead because of Ames’ strong start, but things quickly changed after he was benched. The Golden Bears had a scoring slump, missing six straight shots in the two minutes Ames was out of the game, while Georgia Tech answered with a 4-0 run.

Midway through the first half, Cal took control again. The Golden Bears extended their lead to 26–16 with eight minutes left after making three straight 3-pointers as part of a 9–0 run that kept Georgia Tech scoreless for almost three and a half minutes.

After that, Cal started to struggle with turnovers as the Bears made three consecutive mistakes in a span of two and a half minutes. Georgia Tech took advantage of this and closed the lead with a 7-0 run. In only 41 seconds, Cal replied with a 6-0 run that included five of its final seven field goals and two more straight 3-pointers.

The Golden Bears finished the half in a rhythm, making all three of their last attempts and making two more straight 3-pointers. After playing its last three games away from home, Cal was leading 43–29 at the half because of the support of the home crowd. The Bears shot more than 50% from the field, beyond the arc, and at the free-throw line at the end of the first half, including eight 3-pointers. No place like home.

Georgia Tech had a strong start to the second half, cutting the lead to 47–44 with an 11–0 run in the first three minutes. Georgia Tech scored 15 points while Cal only managed four in the early going. The Yellow Jackets kept getting better, scoring three 3-pointers in the first five minutes—more than they had in the first half—and going on a four-minute, 20-2 run to take their first lead of the game, 51-49. The Bears were having trouble establishing a rhythm, and Cal’s 15-point halftime lead was gone. Cal only scored eight points in the paint, while Georgia Tech scored 34.

Cal’s offense came alive in the last seven minutes. Ames took back the lead at 67–65 with five baskets in 37 seconds. Chris Bell increased the lead to 70–65 with his second 3-pointer of the evening. Pippen extended the lead to 72–65 with a smooth pick-and-roll with Ilic on the next possession. In the crucial last seconds, Georgia Tech struggled to make baskets, only making two of nine shots.

Bell made another 3-pointer with two minutes left, but Fleming of Georgia Tech answered with a triple of his own to make it 80-77 with 1:00 remaining. With 43.9 seconds left, Ames drove to the basket, drew a foul, and made a 1-of-2 free throw to put Cal ahead 81-77. After that, the Golden Bears used timely scoring and precise free-throw shooting to win, 90-85.

Cal’s team highs: Justin Pippen had six assists, Milos Ilic had nine rebounds, and Dai Dai Ames had 29 points. Ames shot 69 percent from the field and missed just four shots.

John has now scored in double figures in five of the last six games and made at least one three-pointer in 22 of 23 games. Cal’s starting five all scored in double figures for the first time this season, while Dai Dai Ames recorded his tenth game of 20 points or more. On Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 5 p.m., the Golden Bears will host No. 20/19 Clemson at Berkeley, California’s Haas Pavilion for their final home game before a 2 game road trip to Syracuse and Boston College.

Stanford Cardinal podcast Daniel Dullum: Stanford gets beat by Cal in 12 point deficit

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The score says it all as the Stanford Cardinal are beaten by the Cal Bears on their home floor on Sat Jan 24, 2026 at Maples Pavilion in Palo Alto (Stanford Cardinal X photo)

Stanford Cardinal podcast Daniel Dullum:

Tough loss for the Stanford Cardinal on Saturday night losing to the Cal Bears at Maples Pavilion 78-66 but Cal had the final say. In the first half it was close but Stanford came away with a four point lead 38-34. The Cardinal in the first half played a solid game and they led early they led by ten points.

This was before Cal put together a 25-5 run and that’s how they got that four point lead in at the half. The Cardinal leading scorer was Jeremy Dent Smith he had the effort but Dent Smith really needed help from his teammates to try and win this game. Stanford they have a nice lineup but they all need to be clicking they need to be playing off each other.

If their not able to do that and Cal had sonething defensively to do with that and yest Dent Smith had a nice game but the other guys have to step up and they didn’t. Cal is having a solid season which is partially why you had every reason to look forward to Saturday night’s game. Both these teams have had their issues the last few years but this season their both off to excellent starts and it looked pretty even going in.

Daniel podcasts Stanford basketball each Sunday at http://www.sportsradioservice.com