California Golden Bears vs Northwestern State Demons Picks and Predictions December 14th 2024

Cal Looks to Address Early Struggles in Matchup Against Northwestern State

Cal (6-4) will aim to snap a three-game skid and resolve its first-half woes when it hosts Northwestern State (4-5) in a nonconference matchup on Saturday afternoon in Berkeley, Calif.

Cal’s First-Half Troubles

The Golden Bears’ season, which began with promise at 6-1, has hit a rough patch with consecutive losses, including an 88-80 defeat to Cornell in which they trailed by 18 at halftime. This followed a 16-point first-half deficit in their ACC debut against Stanford, underscoring a troubling trend of sluggish starts.

“Two games in a row,” said center Mady Sissoko after the Cornell game. “We’re not learning anything. This is unacceptable.”

Coach Mark Madsen has emphasized the need for better ball security and early intensity in practice this week. Cal committed 17 turnovers against Cornell, the second-most in a game this season, and has lost the turnover battle in five straight games.

Free College Basketball Picks from the Pros! Access today’s free college basketball picks here.

Cal’s offense has largely relied on Devin Askew, who leads the team with 17.3 points and 5.4 assists per game. Sissoko has been an interior presence, averaging 10.9 points and a team-high 8.6 rebounds, but the Golden Bears will need greater consistency from the supporting cast to avoid digging early holes.

Northwestern State on the Rise

Northwestern State has won back-to-back games to open Southland Conference play, including gritty road victories over Incarnate Word and Houston Christian. The Demons’ four wins this season have all come on the road, showcasing their ability to compete in hostile environments.

Jon Sanders II, a California native and former East Los Angeles College standout, has been the engine for the Demons. He tallied 29 points on 50-percent shooting across last week’s two victories. Sanders, nephew of Michigan Fab Five legend Jimmy King, returns to the Golden State with added motivation to perform well.

“He might possibly see some old friends,” said Demons coach Rick Cabrera. “But it’s a business trip. If the guys stay locked in, I think we’ll have a nice game.”

Addison Patterson, who began his career at Oregon, has been another key contributor for Northwestern State. Patterson has recorded at least one steal in eight straight games and two or more steals in five games this season, anchoring the Demons’ scrappy defensive effort.

Key Matchups

• Jon Sanders II vs. Cal’s Perimeter Defense: Sanders’ ability to score efficiently will test a Cal defense that has struggled in recent games. Limiting his open looks and transition opportunities will be critical for the Golden Bears.
• Turnover Battle: Northwestern State thrives on forcing turnovers, and Cal has been prone to giveaways during its three-game skid. If the Demons can continue their opportunistic play, it could disrupt Cal’s offensive flow.
• Devin Askew vs. Demons’ Backcourt: Askew will need to manage the pace and protect the ball to help Cal avoid another sluggish start. His ability to create for teammates and score will be pivotal.

Whether it’s stats or stories

S&S has what you need.

Check It Out!

What’s at Stake

For Cal, this is an opportunity to regroup and build confidence before resuming ACC play. Another slow start, however, could raise concerns about the team’s consistency heading into the heart of its schedule.

For Northwestern State, this game represents a chance to gain valuable experience and add a marquee win to its resume while continuing to develop its identity ahead of the Southland Conference stretch.

Prediction

The game could come down to whether Cal can address its early-game issues and limit turnovers against a feisty Northwestern State squad. If the Golden Bears establish a rhythm early, their talent should give them the edge. But if the Demons capitalize on turnovers and play with the poise they’ve shown on the road, this could become a competitive contest in the second half.