UC Davis Aggies vs CSUN Matadors Picks and Predictions January 1st 2026

UC Davis Aggies vs CUC Davis Aggies vs CSUN Matadors Betting Preview

Big West play tips off Thursday night in Davis as UC Davis hosts CSUN at the University Credit Union Center. The Aggies enter 7-5 overall and have been reliable on their home floor, while the Matadors arrive at 8-6 after a competitive nonconference showing. You can follow market movement and updated pricing on the NCAA basketball odds page.

CSUN is coming off an 88-80 loss at Stanford that showed offensive firepower despite the result. UC Davis returns home after a lopsided win that reinforced its efficiency and depth. With conference play beginning, pace and execution take priority over raw scoring volume.

Line Movement and Odds

UC Davis opened as a modest home favorite at −4.5, with the total set at 162.5. Early interest has been mixed, as CSUN’s scoring output attracts underdog support while UC Davis’ home splits anchor the favorite side.

Totals action remains cautious. Both teams score well, but UC Davis typically slows tempo at home. For broader conference context and daily matchups, see the college basketball previews page.

Matchup Breakdown

CSUN’s edge comes from activity and volume. The Matadors average more than 80 points per game and rank top-50 nationally in field goal attempts. Larry Hughes II and Joshua O’Garro drive the offense, while strong rebounding gives CSUN second-chance opportunities that travel well.

UC Davis counters with efficiency and balance. The Aggies shoot nearly 48 percent from the field and are disciplined in half-court sets. Nils Cooper remains the focal point, supported by consistent perimeter shooting and strong free-throw conversion late in games. At home, UC Davis limits transition chances and forces opponents to execute against set defenses.

If CSUN controls the glass, the margin tightens. If UC Davis dictates pace, the home side gains separation. For comparison against other projections, the free college basketball picks page provides context.

Injuries and Conditions

CSUN

No major rotation changes reported entering conference play.
Full details: CSUN team page

UC Davis

No significant injuries reported.
Full details: UC Davis team page

Indoor matchup, no external conditions.

Best Bets and Prediction

UC Davis’ shooting efficiency and home-court control give them the edge in a game that should feature sustained half-court possessions. CSUN’s scoring keeps them competitive, but execution favors the Aggies late.

Projected Score: UC Davis 85, CSUN 78
Best Bet: UC Davis −4.5
Secondary Lean: Under 162.5, with UC Davis controlling tempo

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Conference openers reward discipline.