As the California Golden Bears prepare to welcome the St. Thomas Tommies to Haas Pavilion, fans are eager for a glimpse of what could unfold on the hardwood. The upcoming clash scheduled for November 7th is poised to be a pivotal moment for the Golden Bears, who have shown both flashes of brilliance and areas in need of improvement throughout their recent outings.

Dec 9, 2023; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; California Golden Bears guard Keonte Kennedy (3) makes a three-point basket against the Butler Bulldogs during the first half at Hinkle Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Robert Goddin-USA TODAY Sports

In their last game against Washington State Cougars on March 8th, the Golden Bears struggled offensively, managing only 52 points with a field goal percentage of just 36 percent. Their three-point shooting was particularly lackluster at 21 percent, which contributed significantly to their defeat. Despite these shortcomings, they did excel at free throws with an impressive rate of 79 percent and demonstrated solid defense with four steals and three blocks.

The game prior to that saw them fare better against Oregon State Beavers on March 5th where they put up a more competitive fight scoring 66 points. Their two-point field goal percentage improved markedly to around 47 percent but turnovers continued to plague them as they committed thirteen in total.

However, it was their performance against Oregon Ducks on March 3rd that raised concerns about consistency within the team's ranks. Scoring only 51 points while allowing an overwhelming 84 by the Ducks highlighted defensive lapses and an offense that couldn't keep pace—a mere two three-pointers made from thirteen attempts is telling.

The key takeaway from these past performances is clear: consistency is king. The California Golden Bears must find stability in their offensive execution while tightening up defensively if they wish to secure victory over the St. Thomas Tommies.

Looking ahead at what might tip scales in favor of CAL is home-court advantage—playing under familiar lights at Haas Pavilion could provide just enough edge for them to outmaneuver UST's defense and control game tempo from tip-off till final buzzer sounds.

Fans should expect CAL's coaching staff will have addressed issues seen during previous games; focusing on reducing turnovers while capitalizing on free-throw opportunities could prove decisive factors come game night.

With anticipation building towards this encounter between California Golden Bears and St. Thomas Tommies, all eyes will be set upon Berkeley come November when these teams lock horns in what promises not just another basketball match but also a test of resolve for CAL as they seek redemption following mixed results earlier this year.

Mark your calendars—the showdown takes place on November 7th at Haas Pavilion in Berkeley with tip-off slated for an evening start time (convert scheduled UTC time accordingly). Fans can catch live action broadcasted via Pac-12 Network ensuring not a single play goes unseen during this thrilling matchup.

NCAAMB - Opinion

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