California Golden Bears vs Cornell Big Red Picks and Predictions December 10th 2024

Cal Looks to Rebound Against High-Powered Cornell

After suffering back-to-back losses, the California Golden Bears are eager to regain their early-season form as they host the Cornell Big Red on Tuesday in Berkeley, Calif.

Golden Bears Seeking Discipline

Cal (6-3) has stumbled after a promising start, dropping two close games against Missouri (98-93) and Stanford (91-89). The latter defeat marked Cal’s ACC debut, where they struggled defensively and lacked cohesion on offense, finishing with just five assists for the entire game.

The Golden Bears made a late push against Stanford, trimming a 20-point deficit in the final six minutes, but it was too little, too late.

Stay Ahead with Expert College Basketball Picks! Check out NCAAB expert picks for today’s matchups.

Head coach Mark Madsen emphasized the importance of improving both ball movement and defensive discipline.

“We have to play better,” Madsen said. “We have to make the extra pass and stay disciplined on defense.”

Cal’s defensive issues were on full display as Stanford shot 52.6 percent from the field and 47.8 percent from beyond the arc.

Andrej Stojakovic, the team’s leading scorer, continued his stellar play with 25 points, while Jovan Blacksher Jr. added 14 in the loss. Stojakovic, averaging 18.8 points per game, will need another strong outing to help the Golden Bears halt their skid.

Cornell’s Offensive Efficiency

Cornell (6-3) has been hot, coming off back-to-back road victories against Colgate and Army. The Big Red displayed their offensive prowess in a 103-point performance against Army on Sunday, shooting 55.9 percent from the field and an impressive 54.3 percent from 3-point range.

Nazir Williams led Cornell with 20 points, while Cooper Noard and Jake Fiegen contributed 17 and 16 points, respectively. The Big Red’s balanced attack features three players averaging double figures, with Williams (13.1), Noard (13.0), and Fiegen (12.9) leading the way.

Cornell’s unique offensive style relies on fast-paced cuts and quick decision-making, which can confuse opponents.

The stories shaping the industry

Right here!

Gambling News!

“Some teams cut hard, but they don’t play as fast as we do,” Cornell head coach Jon Jaques said. “You’re worried about getting back on transition defense, and all of a sudden, you’ve got to worry about the cut too.”

Key Matchups to Watch

1. Andrej Stojakovic vs. Cornell Defense
   • Stojakovic’s ability to generate points will test Cornell’s defensive versatility.
2. Cornell’s 3-Point Shooting vs. Cal’s Perimeter Defense
   • After Stanford’s success from deep, Cal must tighten its perimeter defense against a Cornell team shooting 54.3 percent from beyond the arc in its last game.
3. Pace of Play
   • Cornell thrives in transition and off quick cuts, while Cal must find ways to control the tempo and force Cornell into a half-court game.

From analysis to updates, our blog is your sports companion.

What’s at Stake

• Cal: Avoiding a three-game skid and rebuilding momentum before diving back into ACC competition.
• Cornell: A chance to notch a road win against a power-conference team and continue building confidence after a strong showing last season.

Series History

Cal and Cornell have met just twice before, splitting those matchups. Tuesday’s game marks their first meeting since 1992.

With both teams boasting offensive firepower, this game could come down to which squad makes the extra defensive effort and executes more efficiently in key moments.