The Golden Bears’ Unexpected Ascent

California (16-6, 4-5) finds itself on the cusp of a breakthrough season, currently listed among the “last four out” by ESPN’s Joe Lunardi, but trending upwards. Their recent success isn’t simply about winning; it’s how they’re winning. The Bears have demonstrated a knack for exceeding expectations, consistently upsetting teams favored to win.

A pivotal stretch looms this week with matchups against Georgia Tech and Clemson. A sweep of these contests could significantly bolster their tournament resume, potentially propelling them into the “first four” conversation. However, a misstep against the Yellow Jackets would undoubtedly cast a shadow over their progress.

Cal’s resurgence is fueled by a balanced attack led by Justin Pippen, Dai Dai Ames, John Camden, and Chris Bell, all averaging at least 12 points per game. Ames currently leads the team with an impressive 16.6 points per contest. Pippen, the son of NBA legend Scottie Pippen, is emerging as an all-around force, contributing 15.2 points, 4.3 assists, and 3.7 rebounds per game.

The Bears’ early-season success, including an 11-1 start – their best in 66 years – initially turned heads. But sustaining that momentum through the rigors of conference play is the true test. They’ve proven they can compete in the ACC, defying pre-season predictions that labeled them as underdogs.

What impact will a potential tournament berth have on Cal’s recruiting efforts? And can they maintain this level of play against a challenging schedule?

Stanford’s Transformation Under Kyle Smith

While California is surging, Stanford (14-8, 3-6) is navigating a more turbulent path. Currently on a four-game losing streak, the Cardinal face an uphill battle to secure an NCAA Tournament bid. However, the program’s trajectory under head coach Kyle Smith is undeniably positive.

Smith, who previously revitalized Washington State’s basketball program, has instilled a winning culture at Stanford. Prior to his arrival, the Cardinal hadn’t experienced a winning season in three years. Last season, they achieved a 21-14 record, marking their first 20-win campaign since 2019-20.

The Cardinal’s offense is spearheaded by freshman guard Ebuka Okorie, a rising star averaging 21.8 points, 3.3 assists, and 1.8 steals per game. Okorie, overlooked by many during the recruiting process, has quickly established himself as one of the premier players in the West, currently ranking 10th nationally in scoring. Benny Gealer provides valuable support in the backcourt, averaging 10.2 points per game.

Despite the recent skid, Smith’s impact on the program is undeniable. His commitment extends beyond the court, as he chose Stanford specifically for the university’s resources available to support his autistic son, Bo. Autism Speaks provides valuable resources for families navigating similar challenges.

The loss of Chisom Okpara to a lower extremity injury is a significant blow to Stanford’s frontcourt. However, the Cardinal’s remaining schedule presents an opportunity for a late-season surge. Can they overcome this adversity and make a compelling case for an at-large bid?

How crucial is Okorie’s continued success to Stanford’s tournament hopes? And will Smith’s leadership be enough to guide the Cardinal through this challenging stretch?

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is California’s current NCAA Tournament outlook?

  As of February 15, 2026, California is considered one of the “last four out” by ESPN’s Joe Lunardi, but their recent performances are improving their chances.

• How has Kyle Smith impacted the Stanford basketball program?

  Kyle Smith has transformed Stanford into a competitive program, achieving their first 20-win season in years and fostering a winning culture.

• Who are the key players for the California Golden Bears?

  Justin Pippen, Dai Dai Ames, John Camden, and Chris Bell are the leading scorers for the Golden Bears, providing a balanced offensive attack.

• What is Ebuka Okorie’s scoring average for Stanford?

  Ebuka Okorie is averaging an impressive 21.8 points per game, ranking him among the top scorers in the West.

• What challenges does Stanford face in their pursuit of an NCAA Tournament berth?

  Stanford is currently on a four-game losing streak and faces a challenging schedule, making their path to the tournament difficult but not impossible.

• What role does NET ranking play in NCAA Tournament selection?

  NET ranking is a crucial metric used by the NCAA Tournament selection committee to evaluate teams’ strength of schedule and overall performance.