Event Preview
Overview
The University of California Golden Bears will host the University of the Pacific Tigers in a men's basketball game on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 10:00 PM PST (1:00 AM EST) at Haas Pavilion in Berkeley, California. Both teams enter the matchup with strong early-season records, setting the stage for an exciting contest. The game is particularly significant as it marks the first meeting between the two teams since Pacific's 87-79 victory over Cal on November 10, 2023. (pacifictigers.com)
Season Snapshot
California Golden Bears
The Golden Bears have started the season with a 7-1 record, including a perfect 6-0 at home. Their only loss came in a narrow 99-96 road game against Kansas State. Recently, Cal has been on a four-game winning streak, securing victories over Presbyterian (67-57), Sacramento State (91-67), No. 18 UCLA (80-72), and Utah (79-72). (pacifictigers.com)
Pacific Tigers
The Tigers hold a 7-2 record, with a 2-2 mark in away games. They are also on a four-game winning streak, having defeated Stony Brook (86-58), Jacksonville (68-53), Sacramento State (68-54), and Air Force (80-65). Notably, Pacific's 80-65 win over Air Force featured a career-high 31 points from senior Elias Ralph. (pacifictigers.com)
Recent Form
California Golden Bears
Cal's recent performances have been marked by strong offensive outputs, averaging 83.8 points per game over their last four contests. The team has demonstrated resilience, particularly in their 79-72 win over Utah, where they overcame a second-half deficit to secure the victory. (pacifictigers.com)
Pacific Tigers
Pacific's recent form has been impressive, with the team winning four consecutive games by double figures. Their 80-65 victory over Air Force was highlighted by Elias Ralph's career-high 31 points, showcasing the team's offensive prowess. (pacifictigers.com)
Talking Points
- Elias Ralph's Impact: Can Ralph continue his high-scoring performances and lead Pacific to another victory?
- Cal's Home Advantage: Will the Golden Bears' perfect home record give them the edge in this matchup?
- Defensive Strategies: How will both teams adjust their defenses to counteract each other's offensive strengths?
- Rebounding Battle: Which team will dominate the boards, and how will that influence the game's outcome?
- Coaching Matchup: How will the coaching strategies of both teams play a role in this closely contested game?
Players to Watch
- Elias Ralph (Pacific): Averaging 18.2 points and 6.6 rebounds per game, Ralph has been a consistent offensive force for the Tigers. (pacifictigers.com)
- Dai Dai Ames (California): Leading the Golden Bears with 19.0 points per game, Ames has been instrumental in Cal's offensive success. (pacifictigers.com)
- Justin Pippen (California): Averaging 14.1 points per game, Pippen has been a key contributor to Cal's scoring efforts. (pacifictigers.com)
- Jaden Clayton (Pacific): Averaging 5.4 assists per game, Clayton's playmaking abilities are crucial for Pacific's offense. (pacifictigers.com)
- Kajus Kublickas (Pacific): Contributed 13 points, seven assists, and six rebounds in the win over Air Force, showcasing his versatility. (pacifictigers.com)
Key Matchups & Storylines
- Elias Ralph vs. Cal's Defense: Ralph's scoring ability will be tested against Cal's defensive schemes.
- Dai Dai Ames vs. Pacific's Defense: Ames' offensive prowess will challenge Pacific's defensive strategies.
- Rebounding Battle: Both teams have strong rebounding units; controlling the boards will be crucial.
- Coaching Strategies: The tactical approaches of both coaching staffs will significantly influence the game's flow.
Fun Facts
- Pacific's 80-65 win over Air Force was their first victory against the Falcons. (pacifictigers.com)
- Cal's four-game winning streak includes a notable win over No. 18 UCLA. (pacifictigers.com)
- Elias Ralph's 31-point performance against Air Force was a career-high. (pacifictigers.com)
- The game will be held at Haas Pavilion, which has a seating capacity of 10,858. (365scores.com)
Things to Chirp About
- "Can Elias Ralph keep up his scoring streak against Cal's defense?"
- "Will Cal's home court advantage be enough to secure the win?"
- "How will Pacific's defense handle Dai Dai Ames' offensive skills?"
- "Which team will dominate the rebounding battle and why?"
Prediction
This game is expected to be closely contested, with both teams entering on strong winning streaks. Cal's home advantage and high-scoring offense may give them a slight edge, but Pacific's recent form and standout performances suggest they will be formidable opponents. The outcome will likely hinge on key individual performances and strategic adjustments by both teams.