NCAA March Madness podcast Michael Roberson: Who amongst the heavy favorites can pull it off Duke, Michigan, or Arizona?

Michigan Wolverines forward Yaxel Lendeborg hangs from the rim after dunking against the Wisconsin Badgers at the Big 10 Conference tournament on Sat Mar 14, 2026 at the United Center in Chicago (AP News photo)

NCAA March Madness podcast Michael Roberson:

#1 Which teams will pull off upsets in the First Four and make the Round of 64? With the tournament officially starting on March 17–18 with the First Four in Dayton, every play‑in game carries huge stakes — teams like the Last Four In fight just to get a spot in the full bracket.

#2 Can any lower‑seeded team emerge as a “Cinderella” and go deep? March Madness is famous for unexpected runs; fans and analysts are debating which mid‑major or double‑digit seed could surprise en route to the Sweet 16 or beyond.

#3 Who are the true favorites to win the 2026 national championship? The bracket was just revealed on Selection Sunday, and heavy favorites like Duke, Michigan, and Arizona are in the conversation — but forecasters are wondering whether pre‑tournament odds match what will happen on the court.

#4 How will seeding controversies and committee decisions affect the bracket? Each year pundits debate whether certain teams were snubbed or over‑/under‑seeded — this year’s bracket has generated plenty of conversation about matchups and perceived injustices.

#5 What are the key factors (metrics, injuries, matchups) that could determine the Final Four? Analysts are digging into efficiency ratings, player availability, and matchup dynamics to predict which teams have the best shot at Indianapolis for the Final Four and National Championship

Michael Roberson is an NCAA beat writer for http://www.sportsradioservice.com

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

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

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.

NCAA Sunday Selections podcast Daniel Dullum: Teams selected Duke, Arizona, Michigan and Florida

Duke Blue Devils Cameron Boozer (12) handles the ball against the Syracuse Orange William Kyle III (42) in the second half in Durham NC on Mon Feb 16, 2026 (AP News file)

NCAA Sunday Selections podcast Daniel Dullum:

#1 Which teams received the most surprising seedings in this year’s NCAA tournament Sunday selection?

#2 How did the selection committee handle teams from mid-major conferences versus power conferences?

#3 Were there any notable bubble teams that were left out, and what were the main reasons?

#4 How do the matchups in the first round set up potential Cinderella stories this year?

#5 Are there any geographic or regional trends in team placements that could impact travel and fan attendance?

Daniel Dullum is a podcast contributor at http://www.sportsradioservice.com

Stanford Cardinal podcast Michael Roberson: Okorie, Gealer, and Rohosy put out great effort, Stanford falls short to Pitt

Stanford Cardinal Benny Gealer (5) takes the ball up the floor against the Pitt Panthers at the ACC Tournament in Charlotte NC on Tue Mar 10, 2026 (Stanford Cardinal photo)

Stanford Cardinal podcast Michael Roberson:

#1  The 15th seeded Pittsburgh Panthers (13-19) Demarco Minor made up for a previous missed shot and scored the game winning basket with just 0.7 seconds left in the game to give Pitt a 64-63 win over the tenth seeded Stanford Cardinal (20-12) at the ACC Tournament in Tuesday’s opening game.

#2 Minor had troubles earlier in the game converting shots missing all seven of his three point shots and going 2-10 in shooting. But it will be that game winning shot with less than a second left that he’ll remember.

#3 Stanford Cardinal sensation Ebuka Okorie dropped a three point shot with 26.2 seconds left in the ball game after Minor missed his three point shot but on a loose ball the Panther recovered and Minor missed a jumper but got the game winner.

#4 Tough loss for Stanford after a hard effort on the floor from Okorie who led with 14 points, followed up by Benny Gealer with 11 points and AJ Rohosy finishing third with 10 points.

#5 The Cardinal wait to see where they play next in the post season but as far as they’re NCAA hopes for March Madness it looks as if it’s over for Stanford.

Join Michael Roberson for the Stanford Cardinal podcasts Wednesdays at http://www.sportsradioservice.com

Stanford Cardinal podcast Michael Roberson: Stanford gets the edge over NC State 85-84 Saturday

Stanford Cardinal guard Ebuka Okorie (1) gets some reach over the NC State Wolfpack’s forward Van Allen Lubin (22) at the Lenovo Center in Raleigh NC on Sat Mar 7, 2026 (Stanford Cardinal photo)

Stanford Cardinal podcast Michael Roberson:

#1 How did Ebuka Okorie’s 33-point performance influence Stanford’s 85–84 victory over NC State on March 7, 2026?

#2 What role did Jaylen Thompson play during Stanford’s late-game run against NC State, and how did his contributions help secure the win?

#3 How did AJ Rohosy contribute offensively and on the boards for Stanford in the matchup with NC State?

#4 In what ways did Jeremy Dent-Smith impact the final moments of the game, particularly with his defensive play and clutch free throws?

#5 How did teammates like Donavin Young and Ryan Agarwal support Stanford’s scoring and rebounding effort against NC State?

Michael Roberson filled in for Daniel Dullum who does the Stanford Cardinal podcasts Sundays at http://www.sportsradioservice.com

Stanford Cardinal podcast Michael Roberson: Stanford gets a big win against Notre Dame 86-78

Stanford Cardinal Ebuka Okorie (1) gets a finger roll underneath the basket against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at the Joyce Center on Wed Mar 4, 2026 (Stanford Cardinal photo)

Stanford Cardinal podcast Michael Roberson:

#1 How might Ebuka Okorie, one of Stanford’s leading scorers, impact the offense for the Stanford Cardinal men’s basketball against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish men’s basketball on March 4, 2026?

#2 What role will Benny Gealer and Ryan Agarwal play in Stanford’s backcourt matchup with Notre Dame’s guards in this ACC game?

#3 Can A.J. Rohosy and Aidan Cammann control the boards for Stanford against Notre Dame’s frontcourt on Wednesday?

#4 How might the playmaking of Jeremy Dent-Smith help Stanford generate scoring opportunities in their road game at Notre Dame, Indiana?

#5 What defensive impact could Stanford forwards Donavin Young who and Cameron Grant have against Notre Dame’s offensive attack?

Michael Roberson does the Stanford Cardinal Thursdays at http://www.sportsradioservice.com

Stanford Cardinal podcast Michael Roberson: Gealer buckets 30 points in Stanford’s 95-75 win

Benny Gealer Stanford Cardinal takes careful aim against the SMU Mustangs on Sat Feb 28, 2026 (photo by Stanford Cardinal)

Stanford Cardinal podcast Michael Roberson:

#1 Michael, a great night for Stanford Cardinal Benny Gealer scoring and leading with 30 points to help beat the Pitt Panthers 75-67.

#2 Always dependable Ebuka Okorie also had plenty of opportunities to finish second in scoring with 22 points.

#3 Aidan Cammann finished third in scoring with 15 points. The Cardinal were able to hand SMU’s defense and get the kind of scoring they needed.

#4 AJ Rohosy finished fourth in scoring with eight points. Rohosy has been instrumental throughout this season.

#5 Up next for Stanford the first of two games on the road at Notre Dame on Wed Mar 4 and the Cardinal close out the regular season on Sat Mar 7 at NC State 11:15am. The Cardinal are 17-11 going on this road trip how do you see the Cardinal going up against Notre Dame and NC State.

Michael Roberson filled in for Daniel Dullum who podcasts Stanford basketball weekends for

http://www.sportsradioservice.com

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

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.

UC Davis Aggies Fall to Hawaii Rainbow Warriors on their Senior Night, 77-73

UC Davis Aggie (#4) guard Connor Sevilla shoots a midrange jumper in the 1st half at the University Credit Union Center on February 26th, 2026, at Davis, California. (Photo credits to Michael Villanueva)

By Michael Villanueva

DAVIS – The Aggies played their final home game of the season on Thursday evening, also celebrating their graduating seniors from UC Davis. Not only was this win crucial for the Aggies and their seniors, but it also helped the Aggies climb the Big West standings, as there is a three-way tie for first place. The Aggies are just one game behind those three teams, sitting in fourth place in the Big West Conference, and it just so happens. Their matchup, Hawaii, is one of the three teams tied for first place. So the Aggies and Rainbow Warriors went toe to toe in the Credit Union Center. However, it would be Hawaii celebrating as they pull an upset on UC Davis, 77-73.

Hawaii leads the all-time series at 12-16, with Hawaii taking the win in their first matchup on December 4th, 2025, in Hawaii with a final score of 75-69. Hawaii is 19-7 overall and 11-5 in the conference going into this week. The Rainbow Warriors, who rank fourth in the country in three-point percentage defense and 11th in defensive rebounds per game, are well known for their defense and rebounding. So with that in mind, Hawaii came into this game sticking to what they know. This win would now change the all-time series to 12-17.

UC Davis started with Isaiah Chappell, Niko Rocak, Marcus Wilson, Connor Sevilla, and Carl Daughtery Jr. After leading the Aggie frontcourt with 6.8 rebounds per game and setting the program’s single-season (58) and single-game (6) block records, Niko Rocak begins his third season at UC Davis. This team was able to protect their home well, as entering this game, they were 12-3 in their center. Also, for the fans who believe in coincidences, when wearing white uniforms, the Aggies hold an 8-3 record.

The Rainbow Warriors started with Harry Rouhliadeff, Isaac Finlinson, Isaac Johnson, Dre Bullock, and Hunter Erickson. This is also Hawaii’s final regular-season road trip in the Big West. It’s important to note that Hawaii has lost the last five trips to Davis and is looking to get its first win since 2021. Hawaii Dre Bullock is averaging 17.2 ppg in the last six games for the Rainbow Warriors.

Right at tip-off, the Aggies’ mindset was to take it to the Rainbow Warriors, and they did. Going on a quick 5-0 scoring run to get it going. Quickly, Hawaii responded with a 5-0 scoring run on their end. In the first half, Hawaii would put up 7 three-pointers on the Aggies and was able to take advantage of UC Davis turnovers. The Aggies would give up 12 turnovers, so Hawaii used that and dropped 14 points in those.

Hawaii’s defense wanted to show the Aggies and their fans that they want to take first place in their conference. So the defense came to play, forcing 8 steals on UC Davis. The Rainbow Warriors were able to hold the lead for pretty much the whole 1st half. They held the lead for 13 minutes, and there are only 20-minute halves. Hawaii’s Isaac Johnson is leading them with 14 points in the 1st half.

At halftime, the Aggies are down by 12 points, 43-31. Marcus Wilson is leading the Aggies in points so far with 11 points. However, Hawaii is making its presence known in the paint with 20 points in the key. Also, the Rainbow Warriors are shooting above 54% in all the categories, while UC Davis shooting is in the opposite direction. The Aggies only put up 3 three-pointers, shooting a total of 11, which puts their deep shooting percentage at 27%.

Hawaii Harry Rouhliadeff got the 2nd half going with a three ball. Keeping the momentum that Hawaii created in the 1st half going. After 5 minutes into the 2nd half, the Aggies were ready to make a run, hitting back-to-back three pointers to cut the lead to 4 points. This would turn into a 9-0 scoring run, and give the team and fans to get on their feet. The score is now 52-49.

Both schools are showing out, hustling on every play, and need this win to increase their lead in the standings. Things went cold for both of them as Davis’ hot scoring run would lead them to a scoring drought for 3 minutes. Those 3 minutes were crucial for their comeback. While Hawaii had its last 8 shot attempts, only 1 would go in. Hawaii would be able to hang on and bring its lead back to 8 points, 56-48.

With 8 minutes left in this Big West showdown, UC Davis is still playing catch up to Hawaii as they still hold the lead. The score was now 62-59, Aggies are down 3 points. Both teams are tightening up on their defense as they know this game is crucial. The Aggies also were really focusing on knocking down shots, in the 2nd half, they have already made 5 over their 3 three-pointers in the 1st half.

The Aggies would again run into a road bump and get themselves in a scoring drought for almost 3 minutes. Aggies struggling to convert a shot is what’s ultimately holding them back from this game. So if UC Davis wasn’t going to make their shots. Hawaii would take advantage and make theirs. They would push the lead back to 9 points, 70-61.

2 minutes left in this game, and the Aggies are still fighting their way to a win in this one. The only problem is, Hawaii is looking to finish them off and win the game to help them increase their chances for 1st place. The score was 73-68, down just 5 points. The Aggies already passed the points they scored in the 1st half, they have scored 37 in the 2nd half so far compared to their 31 points in the 1st half.

Although UC Davis was able to make some tough baskets, that were shedding some light on them. It wasn’t enough, as Hawaii was able to feel the win with 11 seconds left, up by 2 points, and had the ball. In Hawaii, Isaac Finlinson would get fouled on the inbound pass. The Aggies’ last hope to somehow pull a win, but Finlinson hits both of his free throws and secures the win for the Rainbow Warriors. The final score would be 77-73, Hawaii’s first win in Davis since 2021.

Hawaii has now won 20 games in this season, but making it their fourth straight 20 and more wins in a row. UC Davis will head to the road to SoCal and face off against Long Beach State on March 5th, 2026, at the Walter Pyramid in Long Beach, California. The Aggies fall to seventh place while Hawaii takes first place in the Big West conference after tonight’s game. Also, next weekend, UC Davis will visit UC Irvine in another Big West game on national television for the final regular-season game of the year on ESPNU.