Tag: NCAA Basketball

Turnover Troubles Cost the San Jose Spartans, Losing 80-75 to UC Riverside

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San Jose Spartans head coach Tim Miles meets with the media after an 80-75 loss to UC Riverside. (Photo by Sean Mentzer, Sports Radio Service)

By Sean Mentzer

SAN JOSE – With UC Riverside allowing only 53.5 points per game, they dragged the Spartans into a tough defensive matchup. San Jose State falls to 1-2 on the season (0-0 MW) after an 80-75 loss to the Highlanders.

The Spartans opened the first half with an electric 8-0 run, forcing the Highlanders into an early timeout, but they still couldn’t stop the Spartans’ momentum as they went on a 16-3 run into the first media timeout.

Spartans senior guard Mekhi Mason scored nine of the opening 16 points, draining two threes.

However, momentum swung back to the Highlanders. With seven minutes remaining, they cut the deficit to 25-23. The Spartans went into halftime with a 37-36 lead.

The Spartan turnovers allowed the Highlanders to close the gap. With 14 turnovers in the first half, the Highlanders capitalized, scoring 17 points off those turnovers and 10 points in transition. It remains a problem for the Spartans, totaling 24 on the night.

“Our ball handling was atrocious,” Spartans head coach Tim Miles said. “I thought they [Highlanders] were physical with it, but really they took advantage of our poor ball handling.”

“I’ve never had a game where we shoot 60% and lose,” Miles added.

The Highlanders finished the night with 30 points from turnovers.

The Spartans forced the Highlanders to take shots from the free-throw line. The Highlanders, who have the Big West’s worst free-throw percentage at 51%, were shooting just 44% from the line by halftime.

With the game tied 45-45 five minutes into the second half, the Spartans couldn’t stop the Highlanders from beyond the arc. Going on an 18-15 run, the Highlanders drained three three-pointers to take a 63-60 lead.

Mason scored four points in a three-minute stretch to help give the Spartans a 67-66 lead. He would finish the night seven-of-eight from the field, scoring a team-leading 22 points, but fouled out with three minutes remaining.

“It really hurt us,” Miles said. “If you just look at his plus-minus, I think he’s plus six, but 22 points in 21 minutes. That could’ve been a night where he had 30-35 points.”

The Spartans had chances to extend their lead at the free-throw line, but in the final eight minutes of the half, they shot just 71.4%.

Despite a 17-11 run by the Spartans, they held a 75-72 lead in the final two minutes. However, the turnover struggles continued, allowing Riverside guard Tony Duckett to score an and-one that put the Highlanders ahead. The Highlanders scored eight unanswered points to secure an 80-75 victory.

Duckett dragged UC Riverside back into the game, scoring 12 points in the second half for a total of 22 on the night.

The Highlanders received strong scoring support from their bench, something the Spartans didn’t have the luxury of tonight. The Highlanders’ bench contributed 40 points, compared to only 14 from the Spartans.

In other news off the court, the Spartans signed Arizona State transfer Moe Odum. However, he isn’t eligible to play until December 18. Odum left Arizona State after signing a pro contract with KB Trepça in Europe over the summer. The Big 12 blocked his return to the Sun Devils because he put pen to paper on a professional contract. After securing another year of eligibility through federal court proceedings, the Spartans signed him on November 10, and he is expected to be a significant contributor to the team’s offense.

Last season with Arizona State, he averaged 16.4 points per game, 3.1 rebounds, and 5.7 assists, shooting 40.6% from the field.

Although they finished the night shooting 60.5%, the Spartans desperately need to clean up their turnover troubles. They’ve proven they can score points; now, it’s crucial they stop being their own worst enemy by letting opponents capitalize on their mistakes.

The Spartans will be back at Provident Credit Union Event Center on Sunday to host Alabama State.

Cal Bears game wrap: LA beats the Bay as USC Trojans defeat the California Golden Bears, 77-65

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California Golden Bears forward (#21) Sammie Yeanay shoots a three-pointer against the USC Trojans in a NCAA nonconference basketball game at the Haas Pavilion on Wednesday, November 11th, 2026, in Berkeley, CA. (Photo credits to Michael Villanueva)

By Michael Villanueva

BERKELEY -Happy Veterans Day to everyone who has worn our nation’s uniform, and thank you for your sacrifice and service to our country. The California Golden Bears (2-2) returned from Lake Tahoe and hosted the No.21 USC Trojans (3-0) on Wednesday night. In a rivalry dating back to 1916, California and USC faced off after both schools returned from Lake Tahoe on Sunday. However, the Trojans defeat the Bears 77-65, having USC feeling golden leaving the Bay Area. Trojans have now won the first three games of their season.

Alijah Arenas, Rodney Rice, KJ Lewis, Jacob Cofie, and Darius Ratliff were the starting five for the USC Trojans. The last time USC was in action was on Sunday night’s Caesars Lake Tahoe Classic, when the Trojans defeated Wichita State 93-86 with 32 points and nine assists from Rodney Rice and 30 points from Alijah Arenas. Rice and Arenas became the first USC teammates to both drop 30 points in a game since 2015.

Jordan Ross, Mantas Kocanas, Jake Wilkins, Sammie Yeanay, and Nojus Indrusaitis started for California. California also attended the Caesars Lake Tahoe Classic, but lost their first game of the season. The Bears were led by Mady Cooper, who scored 19 points and made five 3-pointers. The Golden Bears made nine of their 26 shots from beyond the arc, and Jordan Ross scored 15 points and five assists.

California’s Jake Wilkins was fouled while taking a shot and hit his free throws to get the first bucket of the night. In the first three minutes of play, Cal’s defense and the crowd at Haas Pavilion caused early turnovers for the Trojans. USC would have three early turnovers, and Cal took advantage of those errors. The Bears would lead 9-2.

Cal’s early efforts and their explosive plays would get them the early edge over USC. However, Trojans guard Rodney Rice would get USC back on track with a three-pointer and send the team on a 7-0 scoring run. Trojans’ defense would step up as the Bears were seeing scoring droughts throughout a majority of the game. Also, USC was staying aggressive on the defensive boards with Cal struggling to make a shot. The Trojans would end the half with 28 rebounds, while Cal only had 17 rebounds.

By halftime, USC was leading Cal by 9 points, 39-30. Leading the Bears in scoring at the end of the first half was Sammie Yeanay with 9 points. The Trojans were led by Rodney Rice with 12 points, 2-of-5 from three-pointers. Both teams were also shooting below 50% from beyond the arc. The Bears and Trojans both take pride in their defense, as every bucket that was made was well-earned.

Going into the final half, the Trojans were starting to get their offensive momentum going. USC guard KJ Lewis opened the first half with a 4-point play after getting fouled shooting from deep. USC’s lead would jump to 11 points, 53-42. That lead had a lot to do with Cal’s defense getting called for fouls. Trojans Rodney Rice would score 4 points strictly from free throws, after Cal couldn’t stop him from driving into the paint to score.

The Bears weren’t just gonna let the Trojans walk into their “Haas” and take over. In the last ten minutes of the game, Cal did their best they could to bounce back. After the shots were falling for the Trojans, USC couldn’t get one to go in for almost two minutes. The Bears would go on a crucial 7-0 scoring run during that time, and cut the lead to 4 points, 53-49.

The Bears’ late scoring runs brought life back into the fans and the players. The Trojans were ready to put the final dagger in the Bears. USC would retaliate with a 7-0 scoring run of their own in the final three minutes, and ultimately end the Bears’ optimism to win. As the game clock ran out, the USC Trojans would get the win 77-65. In Cal’s loss, the Bears were led by Sammie Yeanay with 14 points and 3 rebounds.

California will take a few days off before they return in action on Saturday afternoon. The Golden Bears will host the Utah Tech Trailblazers (1-2) at 2 p.m. and will be broadcast live on the ACCNX. The Trailblazers are coming off a road loss to Utah State, 118-86.

California went Golden with 17 made three-pointers, beating Radford, 84-70

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California Golden Bear guard (#25) Nojus Indrusaitis dribbles his way inside the paint against the Radford Highlanders in an NCAA non-conference basketball game at the Haas Pavilion in Berkeley, California, on Wednesday, November 4th, 2026. (Photo credit: Michael Villanueva)

By Michael Villanueva

BERKELEY – On Wednesday night, two days after their season-opening win, the California Golden Bears (2-0) returned to Haas Pavilion to host the Radford Highlanders (0-2). In the Bears’ Monday win, they shot 11-of-23 from the three-point range. In tonight’s game with Radford, the Bears shot 17-of-35 from three-pointer’s, almost 50% (49%), and with that shooting would get their second win of the season, 84-70, California wins.

On Monday night, Radford made their first stop on their two-game West Coast trip at the University of San Francisco. USF would go on to defeat Radford, 76-62, handing the Radfords their first loss in their first game of the season. Their head coach, Zach Chu, would send the same guys as the starters. With Frederik Erichsen, Mathieu Grujicic, Tristan Gross, Gabriel Ferreira, and Ja’Corey Robinson as the starters. Erichsen led the team in their loss with 12 points, 7 rebounds, and 1 assist.

The Bears are still without their returning and former starting forward, Lee Dort, due to ankle complications. California went with the same lineup from Monday’s evening win over Adams State with Jordan Ross, Mantas Kocanas, Jake Wilkins, Sammie Yeanay, and Nojus Indrusaitis. Five players from Cal would score double-digit points in the team’s win on Monday. The Bears were also missing their head coach, Mark Madsen, due to a family emergency.

Getting the first bucket of the night would be Cal’s Jake Wilkins with a three-pointer to get the fans in the Pavilion on their feet. However, Radford would go on a 6-0 scoring run in the first two minutes of the game and get an early lead, 8-5. The Bears responded by making three three-pointers in a row. This gave the Bears an early seven-point lead, 17-10.

The Bears’ defense made it hard for the Highlanders to get their three-point shooting going, but Radford wasn’t gonna let up. Head coach Zach Chu had his team attack the paint. By the end of the first half, Radford scored 24 points in the paint while Cal was only able to get 8 points. Cal would end the first half on a 5-0 scoring run, having a total of seven scoring runs just in the first half.

Halftime, California leads over Radford, 45-37. Bears Nojus Indrusaitis leads the team so far with 12 points, 2 rebounds, and 1 assist. The Bears’ shooting has been the main reason why they’re holding the lead. They’re shooting 9-of-17 from three-point range, and their defense is holding Radford’s deep ball shooting at 4-of-13. Although Radford’s aggressiveness has been their reason, they’re still within grasp. The Highlanders have scored 24 points in the paint, while California has scored 8 points in the paint.

To start the second half of the game, Nojus Indrusaitis, by himself, would go on a 7-0 scoring run. His early efforts changed the Bears’ lead to 8 points, 52-44. Although Radford would get a strong scoring run of a 7-0, and cut the lead to just one point, 52-51. Bears Jake Wilkins would slam a dunk on a fast-break transition and get the team ready to take over.

Middle of the 2nd half in the game, Cal’s last four offensive possession would all be made three-pointers. The Bears were feeling golden, as they went on a 12-2 scoring run for almost three minutes. This run would push the lead to 13 points, 71-58, and start to discourage Radford after getting the score within one point.

Applying more pressure on Radford, Cal from the nine-minute mark to the three-minute mark of the second half made 6 of 8 three-pointers. Cal’s Michael Cooper made three of those, and Nojus Indrusaitis made two of them in that span. Setting the score up to 79-62, Cal leads. With time running down and Radford desperately shooting shots, Cal wouldn’t allow any comebacks, especially in their “Haas”.

The final score of the game was 84-70. California was led in this win by Nojus Indrusaitis with a new career high at 30 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists. Coming off the bench with 16 points, 4-of-8 from the three-point line, 3 rebounds, and 3 assists, and proving to be a factor for the Bears’ offense was Michael Cooper.

Next, the Golden Bears are heading to “The Big Blue”. California’s basketball program is playing in the Caesars Lake Tahoe Classic on November 8th. The Caesars Lake Tahoe Classic will feature 3 Men’s games and 1 Women’s game. California men’s basketball will play, and it’s their first meeting with the Houston Cougars since 1999 at 5:30 p.m. Cal women’s basketball also is competing at the Classic, playing San Francisco in the event’s opening game at 11 a.m.

March Madness NCAA: Gamecocks overwhelmed the Horned Frogs 78-52, in Elite 8 Sacramento 4 Regional, Monday Night; Onto Phoenix F4

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South Carolina Gamecocks guard Raven Johnson (25) is thrilled after hitting a three point shot against the TCU Horned Frogs in the second half of the Elite 8 to advance to the Final Four at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento on Mon Mar 30, 2026 (AP News photo)

By Michael Roberson

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The South Carolina Gamecocks (35-3) punched their ticket to the Final Four the sixth consecutive time, after a blowout victory over the TCU Horned Frogs (32-6) 78-52 in the Capital City of California.

TCU opened the game with a 6-0 start, stunning USC early in the first. It took a while for the Gamecocks to recover, but they eventually gathered their faculties. The Horned Frogs led by as many as eight points in the initial 10 minutes of the tournament tussle.

Despite the nearly 10-point deficit, South Carolina managed to tie the game at 14, with 1:03 left in the quarter. Later they took their first lead with six seconds remaining in the period. At the end of one, USC led by two, 16-14.

In the second stanza South Carolina improved on their advantage and showed their prowess. Their shooting percentage went up six points and and so did their lead at quarter’s end. At recess, South Carolina held an eight point lead, 35-27.

Two players from the Gamecocks scored 10+ points, while one Horned Frog fit that criteria, Sophomore forward Joyce Edwards scored 14 points and grabbed 6 rebounds, while her teammate and senior guard Raven Johnson dropped 10 points and dished 4 assists. Olivia Miles represented TCU with 11 points for her squad.

Despite shooting a horrible 20% from the field, South Carolina maintained their 8-point cushion after three quarters, 49-41. TCU shot 36% and scored 14 points, as did their opponent. Something big was about to occur in the final quarter.

South Carolina demonstrated their championship pedigree in the fourth quarter, by shooting a scorching 72% from the floor and going on a 16-0 run within the last 10 minutes of the game. Their lead ballooned into a 26-point advantage, and total dominance was underway.

After the final horn was sounded, South Carolina had secured a 24- point victory (78-52) and advanced to the Final Four in Phoenix. The Gamecocks will be taking on the the Connecticut Huskies, in a rematch of last year’s National Championship game.

The last time the Gamecocks played an Elite 8 game in California was 2017 in Stockton. They went on and won Coach Dawn Staley’s and the University of South Carolina’s first National Championship, They both have won two more since then. Number two was in 2022 (Minneapolis), coincidentally against Connecticut. The third one was 2024 (Cleveland) ageist Caitlin Clark and the Iowa Hawkeyes.

Connecticut will be going for their 13th title, and the 12th was last year against, South Carolina. Dawn will be going for number four, in which will improve on her pioneering status. Staley is the winningest Black coach (Either Gender) in college basketball history for National Championship titles.

Arizona Heads to the Final Four in 25 Years, Beating Purdue, 79-64

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Arizona forward Koa Peat (10) dunks during the second half in the Elite Eight of the NCAA college basketball tournament against Purdue, Saturday, March 28, 2026, in San Jose, Calif. (Photo Credits to AP Photo/Kelley L Cox)

By Michael Villanueva

SAN JOSE – The Madness of March is over, as SAP Center welcomed 4 programs to the South Bay, but only saw only one of them would come out victorious. Between the No.1 Arizona Wildcats and the No.2 Purdue Boilermakers, which both are champions to their conference. It would be the Arizona Wildcats moving on to Indianapolis with a 15 point win, and these dangerous Wildcats have now won 13 games in a row.

Arizona Wildcats went with guards Jaden Bradley, Brayden Burries, forwards Koa Peat, Ivan Kharchenkov, and center Motiejus Krivas for their Elite Eight game. The Wildcats will be hoping to make it to the Final Four for the first time since 2001 and the fifth time in program history. This is their 12th Elite Eight appearance overall and their first since 2015.

Purdue Boilermakers sent out guards Braden Smith, Fletcher Loyer, forwards Trey Kaufman-Renn, Oscar Cluff, and center C.J. Cox on the teams Elite Eight run. Purdue has a 0-9 record against No. 1 seeds overall and is seeking its first victory over one. Purdue will be trying for its fourth Final Four overall and its second in the last three seasons.

After the first 7 minutes of play, Arizona was in the lead with 5 points, 17-12. Arizona went on a 8-2 scoring run for 3 minutes. The Wildcats saw a lot of their points in the paint which was giving them early control of the game. Arizona scored 12 points in the paint to their now, 19-12 lead. It should come as no surprise that Purdue is already having issues with Arizona’s size and agility. Oscar Cluff is holding his own so far, but if the Boilermakers don’t find extra help from the players down in the block, the Wildcats will dominate inside.

4 lead changes and 6 ties already happened 15 minutes into this game. Both teams are trying to send their school to the Final Four with the finishing line being just a couple of games away. With 3 minutes left of the 1st half the score was, 30-27, Purdue leads now. After a bad shooting performance in their Sweet 16 game, Purdue has shotten the ball better. Last game int he 1st half, Boilermakers only had 3 three-pointers in the 1st half, but tonight they had 6 three-pointers already. While Arizona is seeing some struggles as they only made 1 three-pointer so far out of 6 attempts.

Halftime, Purdue is leading Arizona by 7 points, 38-31. The Big-10 champions, Purdue, hit 7 three-pointers in the 1st half that got them feeling great heading into the lockers. While the Big-12 champions, Arizona, was struggling on the field. Only making 1 three-pointer would go a long way and a reason on why they’re down at halftime. While the Wildcats are struggling from deep as they only got 1 deep ball to go in.

The Boilermakers have gone on to lose after leading at the half just twice this season: Jan. 24 against Illinois and Feb. 26 against Michigan State. So with the start of the second half, the pressure for Purdue to win the game is on. Vice versa with Arizona as they started the final half playing catch up. Which Arizona really turned up the heat on Purdue and took it to them.

Wildcats were able to knock down 3 three-pointers in the second half, which was a lot better than the just the 1 three-pointer they made in the first half. The more this game goes on, the more the talent gap between Arizona and Purdue becomes clear. Arizona is more prepared to play in transition when the game breaks down, which has happened more often in the second half. The Wildcats are on the verge of making it to their first Final Four in 25 years.

In the second half, Arizona played with an entirely different feeling of urgency. At both ends of the floor, there are differences in physicality and intensity. However, the two crucial figures: Arizona had six turnovers in the first half but zero in the second. After a 7-14 first half, Purdue is now 0-4 3PT. By the 3 minute mark, Arizona had a 15 point lead on Purdue.

Ultimately, Arizona wrote their story to the Final Four in San Jose as they would win the game against the No.2 Purdue Boilermakers, 79-64. Arizona Wildcats will head to Indianapolis, and wait on the winner of the No.1 Michigan vs No.6 Tennessee. That game will be played on Saturday, April 4th, 2026.

Wildcats dominated Razorbacks, 109-88, will face No.2 Purdue Boilermakers in Elite Elite

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No.1 Arizona Wildcat guard (#5) Brayden Burries makes an 11-foot pull-up jump shot at the 14-minute mark of the 2nd Half on Thursday, March 26th, 2026, in San Jose, CA, at SAP Center. (Photo Credits to editor Michael Villanueva)

By Michael Villanueva

SAN JOSE – Just right after a crazy ending to the game between Purdue and Texas, SAP Center welcomed the 2nd game of the Sweet 16 West Region Tournament Games. The No.1 Arizona Wildcats vs. the No.4 Arkansas Razorbacks. This is their 2nd ever meeting in the NCAA Tournament, with Arkansas winning the last matchup in 1994 in the Final Four. With the Sweet 16, the road leads to the Elite Eight, and once again, the Razorbacks and Wildcats cross paths in this March of Madness. Arizona gave a show to the South Bay as they beaten Arkansas, 109-88.

Arizona is making its 40th all-time appearance in the NCAA Tournament. With this win, Arizona not only reaches its 35th win of the season but secured their spot to come back on Saturday evening for the Elite Eight and will face off against the No.2 Purdue Boilermakers. This will be the Wildcats 23rd trip to the Elite Eight in school history.

No.1 Arizona Wildcats started with guards Jaden Bradley, Brayden Burries, forwards Ivan Kharchenkov, Koa Peat, and center Motiejus Krivas. Arizona’s all-time record in the NCAA Tournament went to 64-38 after getting a couple of wins down in SoCal area, San Diego. This was the Wildcats 16th appearance in the Sweet 16, but their fourth in five seasons with head coach Tommy Lloyd. Arizona isn’t a stranger down here in San Jose, as this was their third NCAA Tournament appearance in San Jose (2002,2017).

No.4 Arkansas Razorbacks started with guards Meleek Thomas, Darius Acuff Jr., forwards Trevon Brazile, Malique Ewin, and Billy Richmond III. Arkansas is enjoying its trip to the sweet 16, as this is the school’s 16th NCAA Sweet 16 and its 5th in a six-year span. The Razorbacks are being lead by head coach John Calipari who’s made quite a resume in the tournament. Coach Calipari is playing in his 17th NCAA Sweet 16 & his second straight. Calipari’s Sweet 16 record was impressive, but Arizona’s performance was too much for him and his team. His record is now 12-5 in the Sweet 16.

After the first 12 seconds, the Wildcats strike first on the Razorbacks with a layup from guard Brayden Burries. From there, it seemed like the whole 1st half was all Arizona. As they held the lead pretty much the entire 1st half. The two stud freshmen, Arkansas Darius Acuff Jr. and Arizona Brayden Burries, face off to close out this thrilling Thursday of games.

10 minutes into the first half of the game, Arkansas was starting to see some early struggles shooting from deep. Arizona has been seeing great success in its offensive possession. Wildcats are comfortably getting in the paint and protecting the paint with 2 blocks already in this game. So with that, Arizona would get on an early roll here in San Jose.

With 2 minutes left, Arkansas was down 13 points to Arizona, 50-37. The Razorbacks shooting has held them back and been their reason why they’re trailing. They were shooting 45% from the floor, but with a bad 17% from deep. While a hot team from the desert like Arizona, those missed three-pointers are big in playing the Wildcats. So, on that, Arizona went on a roll and saw a 15-point lead at one point on Arkansas.

At halftime, the Arizona Wildcats would lead the Arkansas Razorbacks by 11 points, 54-43. Arizona’s shooting is showing why they’re one of the best schools to take the West Region. They’re shooting a high 65% from the floor, going 18-of-28, just missing 10 shots on the floor the whole 1st half. The Wildcats are the first team to have 50+ points before halftime in multiple games within a men’s NCAA tournament since 2017. While Arkansas is hanging on, its problem is not hitting its shots and not being aggressive. The Razorbacks end the 1st half on 2-of-12 from deep at a low 17%.

The 2nd half was pure domination for Arizona. The Wildcats just proved to be too much for the Razorbacks. After the first 8 minutes, the Wildcats didn’t miss a shot in their possessions. A huge way to come back from where you left off in the 1st half. However, with his 13th point of the game, Darius Acuff Jr. has totaled 73 points across his first three NCAA tournament games, passing De’Aaron Fox for the most points scored by an SEC freshman in their first three career NCAA tournament appearances.

With the big and tough performance from Razorback freshman star Darius Acuff Jr., Arkansas found itself down by 21 points just 7 minutes in the 2nd half. Arizona is pulling away from Arkansas in San Jose, holding that commanding 78-57 lead. The lead feels unreal to be in the Sweet 16, and the home travel team-Arizona crowd, is here and energized, chanting “U-of-A” as the Wildcats were getting closer to securing their spot in the Elite 8.

Now, with 7 minutes left of the game, nothing much has changed. Except the Razorbacks were starting to play frustrated from the performance and how the game is going. Arkansas would start to commit fouls, with some turning into a flagrant foul. The lead was still 20 points to Arizona, 92-72.

As the game reached the final 2 minutes, it was pretty clear who had won this game. Arizona is holding a 23 point lead. The Wildcats controlled the rest of the game and slowly played the clock out to officially get the win. With that, the final score was 109-88. Arizona will head to the Elite Eight for the first time since 2015 with its head coach, Tommy Lloyd.

Arizona Wildcat freshman Brayden Burries led the team with his 23 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists. Burries and the Wildcats will host the No.2 Purdue Boilermakers right back in the SAP Center on March 28th, 2026, at 5:49 p.m. in San Jose, CA. The final game that San Jose will host, as the winner of the Saturday game, will take the road to the Final Four.

PURDUE WINS ON PUTBACK, 79-77, Advances to Elite Eight over No.11 Texas Longhorns

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Purdue Boilermakersguard (#2) Fletcher Loyer shoots a 24-foot three-pointer jumper to start the 2nd half between the Texas Longhorns in the West Regional ‘Sweet 16’ matchup on March 26th, 2026, in SAP Center at San Jose, CA

By Michael Villanueva

SAN JOSE – The Longhorns and Boilermakers have had a long history between them since before tonight’s “Sweet 16” matchup in the NCAA March Madness Tournament. However, this game and performance from both schools will go down as another historical game in the all-time series. Purdue and Texas would go back and forth on Thursday afternoon, with 16 lead changes, tied 10 times, and with only one team having a large lead of just 7 points. However, Purdue Trey Kaufman-Renn’s tip-in with less than a second left lifts the No.2 Purdue to a 79-77 win over No.11 Texas.

No.2 Purdue started with guards Braden Smith, Fletcher Loyer, C.J. Cox, forward Trey Kaufman-Renn, and center Oscar Cluff. The Boilmakers hope this squad can send them to their third Elite Eight in the last seven years. Purdue and Texas are set to face each other for the seventh time in their series history, with the Longhorns currently holding a 4-2 lead. Their upcoming matchup will be their first meeting since Purdue’s 81-71 victory over Texas in the second round of the 2022 NCAA Tournament.

No.11 Texas Longhorns started with guards Tramon Mark, Jordan Pope, forwards Dailyn Swain, Camden Heide, and center Matas Vokietaitis. Longhorns came into this game feeling really good with the turnaround theyb had this season. Texas Longhorns head coach Sean Miller is making his ninth Sweet 16 appearance in 21 seasons as a head coach. With a 25-13 record across 14 NCAA Tournament appearances, Miller ranks ninth among active Division I coaches for the most career NCAA Tournament wins.

Purdue came out at Texas right at tip-off, feeling the hype from the crowds in San Jose. Purdue guard Fletcher Loyer started the game off with back-to-back three pointers to get the Boilermakers on their feet and an early 6-0 lead. However, there’s a reason this Texas team has made it this far in the tournament. As Texas guard Tramon Mark gets going.

Texas guard Tramon Mark would get the Longhorns after Purdue’s hot shooting start. In fact, Tramon Mark locked in for Texas and took over as their main scorer in the rest of the 1st half. He is shooting efficiently, going 4-for-5 from the field, including two three-pointers, and leads all scorers with 10 points. The Longhorns hold a 21-18 lead with 10:48 remaining in the first half. Then, a minute later, Mark would eventually have half of Texas’ points.

The Boilermakers have been creating good scoring opportunities, especially in the paint with 18 points, largely thanks to Braden Smith, the NCAA’s newly crowned assist leader. Purdue is 2-of-7 from three-point range but has missed several open looks. Their two three-pointers came right at tip-off, and they struggled from deep afterward, missing nine straight attempts. After Fletcher Loyer made two early threes, the drought ended when he knocked down another late in the half. At the 1:03 mark, Loyer leads all scorers with 13 points, and Purdue holds a narrow 37-35 lead.

By halftime, Purdue would see themselves with a 4 point lead, 39-35. Purdue is able to withhold Texas hustle and athleticism by outrebounding them 18 to 13, and the Boilers shot 53.1 percent from the field were a big factor on how they’re holding the lead. However, Texas was able to knock down more three-pointers than Purdue since the Boilermakers three-pointers only came from guard Fletcher Loyer. The Longhorns ended the 1st half with 6-of-16 three-point shooting.

Texas guard Tramon Mark made his name and presence felt here in the first game of the Sweet 16 matchups. He picked up right where he left off from his 1st half performance, and knocked down some big shots. Mark reached the 2,000 career points milestone through his 19th point, spanning six seasons with Houston, Arkansas, and Texas. He finished the first half with 12 points, marking his highest-scoring first half in any NCAA tournament game. This tournament appearance is his 13th across his career at Texas and Houston. Texas leads 49-45 at the 15:37 mark.

Purdue was still able to see some success even though they still weren’t able to make any three-pointer in the 2nd half with 10 minutes left. Purdue’s defense locked in as Texas made 3 costly turnovers in the final minutes. Also, the Longhorns would also pick up some crucial fouls that gave Purdue trips to the line. By then, the Boilermakers were up by 1 point in the final minute of the game. There have been over 15 lead changes in this close game.

With just 11.9 seconds left in the game, Texas ties it up, 77-77, after Longhorn forward Dailyn Smith drives to the basket hard and makes his layup, with the foul, converting it to a three-point play. He would get sent to the line and tie it up from there. Then Purdue guard Braden Smith would drive it to the basket, miss his layup, but Purdue’s big man, Trey Kaufman-Renn, would tip it in and win the game for Purdue, 79-77.

Purdue Boilermakers now advance to the Elite Eight. They will take on the winner between of No.1 Arizona Wildcats and No.4 Arkansas Razorbacks. The Elite Eight game will be played right back in here at SAP Center in San Jose, CA, on March 28th, 2026.

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.

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.