Opinion
3 min read

Golden Bears Set to Clash with Utes at Huntsman Center

As the California Golden Bears gear up for their next encounter, optimism is high among fans and analysts alike. The upcoming game against the Utah Utes at the Jon M. Huntsman Center promises to be a spectacle of skill and strategy.


Feb 5, 2023; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Utah Utes guard Rollie Worster (25) shoots against California Golden Bears guard Marsalis Roberson (0) and forward Monty Bowser (2) in the second half at Jon M. Huntsman Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Swinger-USA TODAY Sports

The Golden Bears have shown a remarkable ability to maintain their composure under pressure, as evidenced in their nail-biting victory over the Washington Huskies on February 18th. With an 82-80 win that saw them scoring consistently across both halves, CAL demonstrated they could close out games even when pushed to the brink.


Their offensive prowess was on full display during that game, with a field goal percentage of 46 percent and free throw percentage standing at an impressive 75 percent. They dominated inside, racking up 36 points in the paint and capitalizing on second-chance opportunities by adding another 18 points. Their rebounding was particularly noteworthy; hauling down a total of 44 rebounds shows they can control both ends of the court effectively.


Feb 5, 2023; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Utah Utes guard Lazar Stefanovic (20) looks to drive against California Golden Bears guard Wrenn Robinson (30) in the second half at Jon M. Huntsman Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Swinger-USA TODAY Sports

However, it's not just about offense for CAL. Their defense has been formidable too. In their recent home game against UCLA Bruins on February 10th, despite falling short by one point with a final score of 60-61, they showcased defensive tenacity by limiting UCLA's shooting efficiency from both two-point range (39 percent) and beyond the arc (29 percent). This defensive solidity will be crucial when facing Utah's attack.


The Utes should not be underestimated though; they will have home-court advantage and undoubtedly come prepared for battle. But if recent form is anything to go by – where CAL has shown resilience even in defeat – then fans can expect another strong performance from their team.


Feb 5, 2023; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; California Golden Bears forward Obinna Anyanwu (23) drives against Utah Utes forward Ben Carlson (1) in the first half at Jon M. Huntsman Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Swinger-USA TODAY Sports

Looking ahead to March 2nd at precisely 6:00 PM MT in Salt Lake City’s Jon M. Huntsman Center, supporters should mark their calendars for what could be one of this season’s most compelling matchups yet between these two teams. For those unable to attend in person, you can catch all the action live on Pac-12 Network as CAL seeks another victory that would bolster their standing within conference play.

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