Full Breakdown
Utah Runnin' Utes Prepare for Key Matchup Against Cal Golden Bears
12/2/2025, 10:59:39 PM
Overview of the Upcoming Game
The Utah Runnin' Utes (6-2) are set to face the California Golden Bears (6-1) in a significant Pac-12 matchup on Tuesday, December 2, at Haas Pavilion in Berkeley, California. This game follows Utah's recent 75-74 victory over Ole Miss, marking their first win outside the Jon M. Huntsman Center under head coach Alex Jensen. The Golden Bears are coming off an impressive 80-72 win against then-No. 18 UCLA, their first victory over a ranked team since 2020.
Recent Performance and Key Players
Utah's recent performance has been highlighted by standout contributions from Don McHenry, who scored a game-high 27 points against Ole Miss, and Terrence Brown, who played a crucial role in securing the win with late free throws. The Runnin' Utes had previously suffered a loss to Grand Canyon but managed to rebound effectively in their latest outing.
Cal's scoring is led by guard Dai Dai Ames, averaging 18.1 points per game, while senior forward Chris Bell follows closely with 16.6 points per game. The Golden Bears are looking to build on their momentum from the UCLA victory as they embark on an eight-game home stand.
Insights from Coach Alex Jensen
Ahead of the game, Coach Alex Jensen emphasized the importance of maintaining a consistent level of play, regardless of the score. He noted the team's growth in handling close games, stating, "It's good to be in a situation like that, in a close game and come out on top." Jensen also highlighted the need for improved defensive intensity, asserting that defense is a controllable aspect of the game that can significantly impact performance.
Regarding Cal, Jensen acknowledged the effectiveness of head coach Mark Madsen's approach, stating, "They keep coming... it's kind of the way we want to play." He praised Madsen for assembling a well-rounded roster where players understand their roles, which has contributed to Cal's recent successes.
Official Statements & Responses
In his pre-game remarks, Jensen stressed the necessity for his team to be prepared for a full 40 minutes of competition, indicating that lapses in focus could be detrimental. He remarked, "Thirty-five or 30 might not be good enough," underscoring the competitive nature of the matchup.
Game Details
- Date: Tuesday, December 2
- Time: 7 p.m. PT / 8 p.m. MT
- Location: Haas Pavilion, Berkeley, California
- Broadcast: ACC Network Extra
- Betting Odds: Cal -9.5, Utah +9.5; Moneyline: Cal -530, Utah +390; Total: 154.5
What's Next
Following this matchup, Utah will continue its non-conference schedule, while Cal will host several additional games, including a contest against Pacific. Both teams are looking to solidify their standings as they progress through the season.
