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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.

Warriors Hold Off Wizards on Filipino Heritage Night, 131-126

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Golden State Warriors center (#7) Kristaps Porzingis shoots a three-pointer against the Washington Wizards in the 1st Quarter on Friday, March 27th 2026, at Chase Center, San Francisco, CA (Photo Credits to Editor Michael Villanueva).

By Michael Villanueva

SAN FRANCISCO – It wasn’t just any other ordinary Friday night at Chase Center. In this Warriors game, the team was celebrating their Filipino Heritage Night at their last home of the month. So Golden State ended the last Friday of the month with another Dub to their nation. The Warriors would win the regular season series with a 5-point win over the Wizards, 131-126. This win is now the Warriors’ 3rd straight in a row, going 3-7 in their last 10 games.

The Warriors went with guards Brandin Podziemski, Will Richard, forwards Gui Santos, Draymond Green, and center Kristaps Porzingis as their starting five. In the Dub over the Nets on Wednesday, Gui Santos scored a career-high 31 points. Santos was 4-for-6 from three and 11-for-16 from the field. He scored 15 points on 5-for-7 shooting with three 3-pointers in just the third quarter, making up over half of his total points.

Wizards sent out guards Bub Carrington, Tre Johnson, forwards Bilal Coulibaly, Leaky Black, and center Alex Sarr as their starting five, here, in San Francisco. In the Wizards’ most recent win over the Utah Jazz, Julian Reese recorded a career-high 26 points and 17 rebounds in just 30 minutes. Given that Reese’s sister, Angel Reese, is a top WNBA rebounder, it looks like rebounding runs in the family.

Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry has now missed 24 games for the team as he is still out due to a bone bruising on his right knee. The team announced during head coach Steve Kerr’s pregame conference. Curry is making good progress coming back from an evaluation. He hopes to be able to play in a live 5-on-5 scrimmage in the upcoming days. With not many games left in the season, the Warriors are hoping to see Curry return for the Play-In Tournament starting on April 14th.

Also, Golden State head coach Steve Kerr said in his pregame conference as well, “We won the last couple of games, but we turned it over 24, 25 times in each of them. We’re not going anywhere by doing that. We have to clean that up, and then that impacts our defense dramatically.” So, with that, the team was on all 10 toes and did exactly that. As in the first quarter, the team had no turnovers at all.

Warriors big man, Kristaps Porzingis, scored Golden State’s first points of the night with a three-pointer. After seeing that first shot going. Porzingis would have himself a quarter that would rub off on the team and took them off to a great start of the game. Porzingis would have himself 11 points, 2 rebounds, and 1 assist just in the 1st quarter. With that, the Warriors would also go on to make 7 three-pointers in the 1st as well, and also held a 15-point lead once already. Washington would be down 13 points after the 1st, 38-25.

Halfway through the 2nd quarter, Washington’s shots started to fall in and was able to cut the lead to 9 points. Wizards were able to get in the paint to get themselves some easy buckets, but the Warriors’ home court advantage makes the visiting team struggle from deep. Wizards were 4-for-16 (25%) from deep while the Warriors were able to get 10-of-20 (50%) from deep.

At half, the Warriors played great in all categories and aspects of the 1st half. Golden State had a 12-point lead at halftime, 72-60. The Warriors were shooting above 50% in all of their shooting categories with just 3 turnovers, and were a big reason why they’re holding this lead. Also, Golden State forward Gui Santos leads the lead at half with 14 points, 2 rebounds, and 3 assists. Santos is also perfect from deep, going 2-of-2 with the team finishing 12 three-pointers at half as well.

The start of the 3rd quarter took place 4 minutes in the Warriors have only made 2 shots. While the Wizards came out with some magic in them and were able to get shots to drop. At this point, the score was 76-73, and the Warriors were now trying to hold the lead, but Wizards guard Bub Carrington would hit a corner three to tie the game, 76-76.

Wizards and Warriors would spend the rest of the 3rd going back and forth on exchanging buckets. With 2 lead changes in this quarter, Washington would now hold the lead at the end of the 3rd quarter, 94-92. Wizards forward Bilal Coulibaly would drop 10 points himself in the quarter to get them the lead. Also, for the 1st half, the Warriors would make 5 or more three-pointers in the first two quarters. In the 3rd quarter, the team was only able to make 4 shots from deep, while Washington was able to knock down 6 three-pointers in the 3rd.

Washington would also finish the game without center Alex Sarr, who received 4 personal fouls in the 3rd quarter. He had 2 fouls coming back from halftime, and now ends the night with 6 fouls, 8 points, and 10 rebounds. So with 3 minutes into the last quarter, the Wizards still had the lead with 2 points, 101-99.

With 5 minutes 40 seconds left in the game, Warriors forward Gui Santos gets a three-point play to drop after being fouled on a layup and getting the and-1 to drop. His points would tie the game at 111-111. Then, the next possession, Player of the Game, Warriors Kristaps Porzingis, would get fouled and sent to the line. His two shots would give them the lead, 113-11.

As the game clock was winding down. The Warriors were able to lock in and focus on their shot selection to help them run away with the win in this one. The final score would be 131-126. Golden State was led by center Kristaps Porzingis with 28 points

The Warriors will play all seven regular season games in California, starting with a five-game home stand in April, but one on the road in Denver. They will finish the season against the Kings in Sacramento and the Clippers in Los Angeles. So with that, the Golden State will play its last away game of the month against the Denver Nuggets on Sunday, March 29th, 2026, at 7 p.m. in Ball Arena. This will also conclude the regular-season series between the Nuggets and the Warriors.

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.

Golden State on 2-game Winning Streak, & beat the Brooklyn Nets on Latino Heritage Night, 109-106.

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Golden State Warrior guard Brandin Podziemski shoots and makes a 26-foot three-pointer in the 1st quarter against the Brooklyn Nets (17-56) on Wednesday, March 25th, 2026, at Chase Center in San Francisco, CA. (Photo Credits to editor Michael Villanueva)

SAN FRANCISCO – With their 600th straight sellout against the Brooklyn Nets at Chase Center Wednesday night, the Warriors have extended a franchise record. The streak started on December 18, 2012, against the then-New Orleans Hornets. Golden State is now the sixth-longest in NBA history & the second-longest active streak. (Miami Heat is the first-longest active streak) The team was also celebrating Latino Heritage Night, as Golden State would win this one in a nail-biter, 109-106.

The Warriors are now on a two-game winning streak after going 2-8 in their last 10 games. The Golden State Warriors are entering their final games of the season and are making maximum efforts to secure a spot in the postseason. Injuries have been a “huge problem and loss,” in the words of Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr. So with that, this win on Wednesday night was a big confidence booster and another win column to the record. The Warriors hope to have a .500 or higher record as they move to 35-38.

Golden State started guards Brandin Podziemski, De’Anthony Melton, forwards Gui Santos and Draymond Green, and center Kristaps Porzingis. Gui Santos will be replacing guard Moses Moody after a scary injury just two days ago. He suffers from a left patellar tendon rupture, and the team will announce more on his injury and status in the following days. However, fans can expect to have lost both of the team wings this season due to injuries. A huge loss for the team as their regular season is reaching its final games.

The Brooklyn Nets started with guards Ben Saraf, Drake Powell, Terance Mann, forward Ziaire Williams, and center Nic Claxton. The Nets are missing their big scorer forward, Michael Porter Jr., who is out for the game due to a left hamstring strain. Center Nic Claxton has been leading the team with his 11.8 points per game and averaging 7 rebounds per game. This young squad hasn’t had much to celebrate this season, but came into Chase Center on Wednesday hoping to end their 8-game losing streak.

In the first half, the Warriors’ shooting and turnovers were the reasons the Nets were able to see early success. By the end of the 1st quarter, Golden State would have 10 turnovers, but was shooting at 50% in all categories. The Warriors were able to stay in the game, but could’ve seen better results on the scoreboard if they were more careful with the ball.

Also in the 2nd quarter, the Warriors went cold, especially from deep. The team would find themselves going 1-of-10 from deep, and with 5 turnovers. This performance wasn’t gonna hold up, especially playing in your own home. So the Warriors went to the paint and had their forwards surround the basket to get easy second chance points.

At halftime, the Warriors are down to the Nets by 8 points, 58-50. The Warriors are dominating and proving they can get rebounds against this young Nets team. However, Golden State had 15 turnovers in the first half. Brooklyn was able to use those possessions to their advantage, and at one point. The Nets had a 13-point lead on the Warriors. Warriors center Porzingis is leading the way so far with his 13 points, 3 rebounds, and 1 assist.

At the start of the 4th quarter, the Warriors were down by 9 points. In the last 7 minutes of the game, we had a tie game at 90-90. Then Warriors rookie guard Will Richard knocked down a 26-foot three-pointer to give Golden State the lead, 93-90. This shot got the crowd on their feet and would ultimately give the Warriors the confidence to finish this game, especially with this sellout crowd. Forcing the Nets to call a timeout, but that would bite them later as they only had one timeout left with a lot of time to play left.

Although the Warriors couldn’t get a shot to go in, they were able to draw in the shooting fouls and get points from the foul. So with that, and the Warriors’ defense clutching up in the end. The Golden State Warriors would go on and beat the Nets after being down 13 points, 109-106.

The Warriors get themselves back-to-back wins for the first time since forward Jimmy Butler III’s injury on Jan. 19th. Player of the game went to Gui Santos. His performance and hustle was important as he also became a big fan favorite player. Santos would finish with 31 points, 4-of-6 from three-pointer’s, 3 rebounds, 2 steals, and 1 assist. Now Golden State looks and has a great chance to make it a three-game winning streak when the Washington Wizards come to the Bay on Friday, March 27th, 2026, at 7 p.m. right back at Chase Center as the team will also celebrate Filipino Heritage Night.

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.

Santa Cruz Warriors Fall to the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, 108-99

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Santa Cruz Warriors guard (#77) Taevion Kinsey shoots a three-pointer in the 1st quarter against the Rio Grande Valley Vipers on March 19th, 2026, at the Kaiser Permanente Arena in Santa Cruz, CA.

By Michael Villanueva

SANTA CRUZ – Sea Dubs lost their first home game of the week, with still one more scheduled home game ahead this week on Saturday. The team lost against the Rio Grande Valley Vipers on Thursday, March 19th, at Kaiser Permanente Arena. Before this loss, Santa Cruz was already riding the wrong waves, as the team was on a 5-game losing streak prior. Going up against a team like the Vipers, which currently sits in 3rd place in the West, is a big challenge, with the team having just three more home games left. So, this wasn’t the result the Warriors were expecting in their home, with the final score being 108-99.

The Vipers’ last five games were 3-2, with their most recent game on March 17th being a loss to the Texas Legends, 108-104. Sea Dubs are holding a solid home record at 7-7. While the Vipers’ record on the road hasn’t been what the team wanted, 6-9. The NBA G League season is reaching its last five to six games of the season. Vipers are trying to hold 3rd place since the playoffs hold the top six teams in each conference. While the Sea Dubs are trying to keep swimming and fighting to get into the sixth spots, they’re currently in tenth place in the West.

The Sea Dubs started with guards Chance McMillian, Taevion Kinsey, forwards Jack Clark, Jacksen Moni, and center Marques Brown. Guard Chance McMillian is averaging 16.58 points per game and was hoping to carry the Sea Dubs to a win. Especially since Santa Cruz is 6-4 against the Vipers in the last 10 games played against each other.

Vipers sent out guards John Knight III, Daishen Nix, forwards Tristen Newton (2W), Cameron Matthews, and center Chase Jeter. Rio Grande is 2 games behind 1st place, South Bay Lakers, so any win count and helps at this point for them.

Right at tip-off, both teams were able to knock down three-pointers that got the fans in Kaiser loud and on their feet. However, it would be the Sea Dubs taking the early lead in the game due to them being more disciple and smart on their shot selection. Especially since they were shooting above 50% early in the game in all of their categories. While the Vipers were a little distraught at first, being on the road. Halfway through the 1st quarter, the Sea Dubs would hold a 7-point lead, 20-13.

Santa Cruz hustle was showing as they were leading in rebounds with 14 compared to Rio Grande’s 8 rebounds. Also, the Sea Dubs’ defense was on display as they had 4 blocks in the 1st. However, the Vipers would hit three three-pointers, which was able to put them back in the game. So with that, the Warriors and Vipers were tied, 26-26.

2nd quarter, the Warriors would become sloppy and careless with the ball at times. They already have 5 turnovers halfway through the 2nd quarter. Giving a helping hand to the Vipers as they were down by 1 point, 35-34, with 6 minutes left. Warriors forward Jacksen Moni would go on a solo 5-0 scoring run that sparked a scoring sequence for both teams. Also, with 4 minutes and thirty seconds left, the Vipers would take the lead by 1 point and push it to 3 points with an easy lay-up. A silent killer for the Warriors is their turnovers, with them having 8 versus Viper’s 1.

At halftime, the Vipers would lead the Sea Dubs, 56-42. A big scoring outbreak for the Vipers is going on, with a 14-5 scoring run to help extend their lead. With help on the Warriors’ end, due to them now having 14 turnovers. Rio Grande was able to get easy transition buckets and turnover points. The Warriors’ three-point shooting also wasn’t on their side. They were shotting 15.8%, going 3-of-19 on their attempts. The Warriors plan to come back from half more disciplined and determined to secure a home win this Thursday evening.

Vipers came out of the half ready to play and ultimately get the win. They would push their lead to one of the biggest in the night at 18 points. Vipers’ shooting and scoring was in well displayed as they pushed to find their inside man in the paint to get an easy bucket. With that, the Vipers would go on and score 40 of their points down there. So halfway through the 3rd quarter, the Warriors were down 14 points to the Vipers, 74-60.

After almost being down by 22 points in the final minutes of the 3rd quarter. The Warriors were able to still show some fight left in them. They would be able to drop the lead to 10 points entering the last quarter of the game. The Warriors’ turnovers would go to 17 in the game. So if Santa Cruz wants to get this win in their home, they’ll have to play smart in the final minutes.

The Warriors would open the fourth quarter by making their first two shot attempts. Then followed up by a big three-pointer by guard Chance McMillian to cut the lead by 5 points. A lot of back and fourth shots were taking place as both teams were trying all of their efforts to get this win. The Vipers’ defense showed out as they were able to pick up some crucial steals. The team would finish with 12 steals over the Warriors’ 4 steals.

In the final 2 minutes of play, the Warriors were down by 9 points, 104-95. Santa Cruz was really beating themselves as turnovers were, and they’re not making shots was the reason they were never able to regain the lead. Although it was impressive to see them almost come back from 22 points, especially in the 3rd quarter. Vipers would win the first one this week, 108-99. The Warriors were led by guard Chance McMillian with 17 points, 3 assists, and 3 rebounds.

Santa Cruz Warriors will come back to their home on Saturday, March 21st, to play once again, the Rio Grande Valley Vipers. The game time for that one will be at 7 p.m. on NBCSBA+. The Sea Dubs are now on a 6-game losing streak, so with their rematch against the Vipers. They look to get at least a win for their home crowd this week and snap that streak.

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.

Golden State Loses to Chicago in Overtime, 130-124, on South Asian Heritage Night.

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Golden State forward (#20) Al Horford drives into the paint on Chicago Bulls forward Guerschon Yabusele (#28) in Chase Center at San Francisco on March 10th, 2026. (Photo credits to Michael Villanueva)

By Michael Villanueva

SAN FRANCISCO – On March 10, the Warriors returned home to San Francisco at Chase Center to host the Chicago Bulls in a non-conference game as part of their celebration of South Asian Heritage Night. So far this month, the Warriors have gone 1-3, losing two games in a row. This game was a back-to-back feature after just yesterday, March 9th, the team lost to the Utah Jazz, 119-116. In fact, in the last five games, the team went 1-4 with their last win being five days ago against the Houston Rockets in an overtime win, 115-113. Now the Warriors have lost the last three games in a row, after losing to the Bulls Tuesday night, 130-124.

The Chicago Bulls are on their West Coast road trip games, as they just came from Sacramento. The Bulls lost to the Kings, 126-110, on Sunday, March 8th at the Golden 1 Center. Bulls are 2-2 so far in March, and have gone 2-3 in their last five games. Altogether, the Bulls have gone 10-20 on the road. This is the teams second time seeing each other as Golden State dominated Chicago in their home on December 8th, 2025, with a final score of 123-91, a 32 point win for the Warriors. The Bulls were able to grab their first win and get the last laugh on their West Coast visit against Golden State.

The Warriors and Bulls have a few connections tied together. Warriors head coach Steve Kerr played for the Chicago Bulls for five seasons (1993-94 – 1997-98), helping Chicago to win three NBA Champions (1996-98). Coach Kerr racked up 378 games for the Bulls coming off the bench, averaging 8.2 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 2.2 assists. If Golden State had won, this would’ve been coach Steve Kerr’s 600th career coaching win.

The Golden State has had some injuries that have impacted the team and roster. However, Draymond Green was listed as questionable at first coming against the Bulls, but Warriors coach Steve Kerr addressed in his pregame press conference that Green will be playing in his 33rd home game. The team will still lack some players and starters as Jimmy Butler (right ACL surgery), Stephen Curry (right patellofemoral pain syndrome), Moses Moody (right wrist sprain), and Seth Curry (left sciatic nerve irritation management) are ruled out.

Not only did Draymond Green return for the game. Kristaps Porzingis had returned to the lineup after missing the team’s last game against the Utah Jazz. His last game was on Saturday, March 7th, in which he posted 9 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists in Oklahoma City against the Thunder. The Warriors entered this game in ninth place in the Western Conference (32-32).

The starting five for the home team was Gui Santos, Draymond Green, Al Horford, Will Richard, and Brandin Podziemski. The Warriors are 19-13 on their home court so far this season. Warriors Podziemski is averaging 12.7 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.7 assists for them. He also dropped 21 points on the Bulls when they first saw each other in Chicago.

Chicago started with Leonard Miller, Jalen Smith, Guerschon Yabusele, Matas Buzelis, and Josh Giddey. Chicago is third in the league with 34.7 defensive rebounds per game, led by Josh Giddey, averaging 7.0. Bulls Matas Buzelis is scoring 15.4 points per game with 5.5 rebounds for the Bulls. This Chicago squad has had a lot of rough moments, especially in last month, February, were the Bulls didn’t win any games at all in that month.

The Warriors were able to get on the board first after Brandin Podziemski got fouled on a shooting attempt that sent him to the free throw lines, and he was able to knock both of his attempts down. The Warriors were able to put 30 points at the end of the 1st quarter and hold on to the lead as well; it was 30-26 at the end of the 1st quarter. Warriors Porzingis came in for almost 4 minutes, and he was ready as he dropped a quick 7 points for Golden State.

Going into the 2nd quarter, the momentum still belonged to Golden State. The team was shooting 40% on the floor halfway through the 2nd quarter. Golden State’s bench has put up 19 points, while Chicago was able to match and surpass the Warriors in points in the paint, 18 points. However, with Golden State knocking down 11 three points so far in the 1st half, the team was able to hang on to the lead, but not for long. Tre Jones makes a 23-foot three-point jumper to give Chicago the lead 50-49, followed up by a lazy transition defense effort on Golden State that led to Bulls Buzelis to get an easy dunk in.

The Chicago Bulls would end the 1st half with a lead at 57-51. Bulls Josh Giddey has already recorded himself a double-double with 10 assists and 14 points. The Warriors are being led by Podziemski with nine points, two steals, and three assists. Golden State heads to the locker room hoping to lock in on their defensive game plan as Chicago also lead and control on the board game. The Bulls snagged 29 out of the Warriors’ 20 rebounds.

Coming into the second half, Chicago was able to score first this time from Jalen Smith on a layup. After that, Chicago held the entire third quarter. The Warriors ended the third quarter down by six points. Golden State’s shot selection improved, but Bulls Matas Buzelis would drop 11 points by himself in the third quarter that helped them hold the lead.

The Warriors made their comeback efforts in the fourth quarter and show the Bulls they got some fight left in them. With that, Golden State used its home court advantage from the fans and was able to retake the lead. Five players from Golden State hit double digits in points. With four minutes left in the game, Gui Santos shoots a six-foot shot to give the Warriors the lead, 106-105. After the Warriors would push the lead to eight points entering the final minutes of the game. However, Chicago showed their intensity and came back from that eight points to send the game to overtime. After a questionable and tough call on Draymond Green, the Bulls’ Jalen Smith was sent to the line. Bulls were down 116-118, and Smith would make both of his shots to give us five more minutes of play time.

Bulls would score first in overtime from Matas Buzelis on a six-foot shot, giving them the early lead. Buzelis would make his presence heard in these extra minutes of play as he hit a clutch three-point shot, which gave energy and life to Chicago. With that and one minute left, the Bulls lead by five points, 129-124. The Warriors couldn’t make a shot in this overtime and killed their chances of winning the game. Chicago would finish the overtime with the lead and the game. The Bulls would win the game, 130-124.

Golden State will get a chance to rest up and learn from their mistakes as they come back to Chase Center on Friday night to host Minnesota at 7 p.m. on Prime Video. Chicago will continue their path in the west coast and see the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday, March 12th at 7:30 p.m.

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.