Dominant Gonzaga, Rising Cal, and UNC’s Tournament Prospects Highlight College Basketball Action
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The college basketball landscape is taking shape as conference play heats up and perennial powerhouses face new challenges. From Gonzaga’s historic winning streaks facing an uncertain future to California’s stunning turnaround and North Carolina’s quest for a secure NCAA Tournament berth, this week’s action promises compelling storylines.
Gonzaga’s Streak Faces Pac-12 Test
No. 7 Gonzaga continues to assert its dominance, recently defeating Pepperdine for the 50th consecutive time. On Tuesday night, the Bulldogs aim to extend another impressive run, targeting their 20th straight victory over San Diego and their 31st win in the last 32 meetings. However, a significant shift looms on the horizon.
The Bulldogs’ impending move to the reconfigured Pac-12 raises questions about the longevity of these remarkable streaks. As one analyst noted, “All those crazy streaks and their unprecedented dominance in their West Coast Conference days are now consigned to oblivion and barely talked about again.” The transition signals a new era of competition, potentially diminishing the historical context of Gonzaga’s past achievements.
ACC Openers: UNC’s Momentum and FSU’s Struggles
The Atlantic Coast Conference also kicked off with key matchups, including Florida State’s visit to North Carolina. The Tar Heels (12-1) appear poised to earn an NCAA Tournament bid on merit this season, a stark contrast to last year when athletic director Bubba Cunningham’s position as selection committee chair drew scrutiny.
North Carolina’s success hinges on the performance of rookie Caleb Wilson, who is averaging 19.6 points and 10.8 rebounds per game. While Wilson has demonstrated exceptional consistency, shooting 80% or more from the field on four occasions, his shooting percentages have fluctuated, including a challenging 5-of-19 performance in a win over Kentucky.
Florida State (7-6), under first-year coach Luke Loucks, is still searching for consistency. Three losses by margins of 28 or more points raise concerns, overshadowing their narrow two-point loss to Florida. North Carolina currently holds a -14.5 point differential, according to DraftKings.
Bulldogs Dominate, But Can They Cover?
Gonzaga (13-1) appears poised for another decisive victory against San Diego. Having recently defeated Pepperdine by 40 points, the Bulldogs have won eight games by more than 25 points. The team’s success is fueled by the improved play of Tyon Grant-Foster and Braeden Smith, alongside the consistent scoring of Braden Huff (18.4 points per game, 66.9% field goal accuracy) and Graham Ike.
San Diego coach Steve Lavin acknowledged the nostalgia surrounding the final matchup against Gonzaga, but the potential for a lopsided result looms large. The Toreros (6-7), led by Ty-Laur Johnson’s recent performance – a career-high five 3-pointers, 22 points, and six steals against Pacific – face a daunting challenge. Gonzaga currently has a -28.5 point differential, according to DraftKings.
Cal’s Stunning Rise and a Test Against Louisville
Perhaps the most surprising story of the season is the resurgence of the California Golden Bears. After eight consecutive losing seasons, Cal (12-1) is off to their best start since the 1959-60 season. The team’s success has drawn comparisons to legendary coach Pete Newell and even sparked speculation about a potential return of former star Jaylen Brown, dubbed the “Scott Drew Rule.”
However, the Golden Bears’ non-conference schedule has been notably weak. Their true potential will be tested in a matchup against No. 16 Louisville (10-2). The Cardinals will welcome back first-year star Mikel Brown (back) after a two-game absence, a boost that is expected to significantly impact the game. Louisville, known for exceeding 90 points in seven games, will challenge Cal to keep pace. The over/under for total points is set at 159.5, with odds of -112 on DraftKings.
