What's Happening?
The California Golden Bears men's basketball team is set to face Columbia in a nonconference matchup on Sunday in Berkeley, California. The Golden Bears, under the leadership of head coach Mark Madsen,
are currently enjoying an impressive eight-game winning streak, marking their best start since 1960 with an 11-1 record. This streak is the longest for the team in 17 years. The upcoming game against Columbia will be their final nonconference game before they begin Atlantic Coast Conference play against 11th-ranked Louisville on December 30. Columbia, led by first-year head coach Kevin Hovde, also had an eight-game winning streak earlier in the season, which ended with a loss to Stony Brook. The Lions have shown significant improvement under Hovde, who has guided them to a 9-2 record so far.
Why It's Important?
The game is significant for both teams as they look to maintain momentum and build confidence before entering their respective conference plays. For the California Golden Bears, continuing their winning streak could enhance their standing and morale as they prepare to face tougher opponents in the Atlantic Coast Conference. The team's success is a positive sign for the program, which has not seen such a strong start in decades. For Columbia, a victory against a strong opponent like Cal could further validate the progress made under Coach Hovde and boost the team's confidence. Both teams are looking to capitalize on their current form to set a strong foundation for the rest of the season.
What's Next?
Following the game against Columbia, the California Golden Bears will shift their focus to the Atlantic Coast Conference, where they will face 11th-ranked Louisville at home. This game will be a significant test of their abilities and could set the tone for their conference play. Columbia, on the other hand, will aim to continue their strong performance under Coach Hovde as they progress through their season. The outcome of the game could influence the strategies and adjustments both teams make as they move forward.
