The Pacific Tigers will make the 90-minute trip to Berkeley to face the California Golden Bears in non-conference play this Friday from the Haas Pavilion.
Pacific Tigers Preview
Pacific comes in at 0-1 after losing to Sam Houston State in their home opener, 64-57. The Tigers fell apart late in the game, and they’ll look to bounce back here in Berkeley. Pacific is scoring 64.0 points per game, on 37.5% shooting, while allowing 57.0 ppg.
Pacific Player Notes
Senior guard Donovan Williams led the way with 14 points on 6/13 shooting in the loss to SHSU.
Former South Carolina State guard Lesown Hallums Jr. matched his total on 7/9 shooting in his first game for the Tigers.
Sophomore forward Makai Richards grabbed a team-high eight rebounds versus Sam Houston.
California Golden Bears Previews
California enters at 1-0 after defeating St. Thomas (MN) in their season opener, 71-66. The Golden Bears avoided an embarrassing loss with timely buckets down the stretch, and they’ll look to create more separation in this in-state matchup. Cal is scoring 71.0 points per game, on 49% shooting, while allowing 66.0 ppg.
California Player Notes
Junior guard Jalen Celestine led the way with 21 points on an efficient 7/10 clip in the win over St. Thomas.
Former TTU fordaws Aimaq double-doubled, and grabbed a team-high 11 boards, while scoring 16 points.
NAU transfer Jalen Cone chipped in 10 points thru 37 minutes of play.
Returning leading scorer Devin Askew scored nine points and grabbed five boards in Tuesday’s victory over STM.
Pacific vs California Trends
PAC is 0-1 against the spread, with a 0-1 over/under record
CAL is 0-1 against the spread, with a 0-1 over/under record.
Corey’s Free Pick
California avoided the upset in their opener, and while I do believe they’ll move to 2-0, the margin movement feels alarming. The spread has gone from six to 11.5, and the Golden Bears struggled to cover double figures during last year’s non-conference slate. Cal could indeed be in better place this season, but instead of the margin, let’s back the Under for this in-state battle.