California Golden Bears vs Stanford Cardinal Picks and Predictions January 24th 2026

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California Golden Bears vs Stanford Cardinal Betting Preview

The California Golden Bears look to build on recent momentum, while the Stanford Cardinal aim to defend Maples Pavilion in this ACC clash.

Line Movement and Odds

Stanford enters as the favorite, but California’s shooting efficiency makes this line worth monitoring. Current market:

  • California Spread: +4.5 (-110)
  • Stanford Spread: -4.5 (-114)
  • California MoneyLine: +174
  • Stanford MoneyLine: -223
  • Total: 144.5 (-110)

Check the College Basketball Odds page for real-time updates and sharper angles before tip-off.

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Matchup Breakdown

California Outlook

The Golden Bears average 78.8 points per game, with Justin Pippen, John Camden, and Dai Dai Ames leading the offense. Camden’s 20 points vs North Carolina highlighted his consistency, while Ames’ 17.4 points per game and 44.4% three-point shooting showcase his impact. California’s efficiency (50% FG vs UNC; 79.1% FT; 14-5 overall record) underscores their strengths. Their ability to win convincingly makes them a dangerous underdog.

Stanford Outlook

The Cardinal average 76.5 points per game, with Jeremy Dent-Smith, Ebuka Okorie, and AJ Rohosy driving production. Dent-Smith’s 18 points vs Duke highlighted his consistency, while Okorie’s 22.1 points per game showcase his dominance. Stanford’s efficiency (73rd nationally in free throws made; 11-4 home record; 14-5 overall record) underscores their strengths. Their ability to dominate at Maples Pavilion makes them tough at home.

Key Factors

This matchup may hinge on rebounding and pace. California thrives on balanced scoring and offensive depth, while Stanford must rely on Okorie’s firepower and Rohosy’s rebounding to tilt the game. Execution in the final minutes will likely decide the margin.

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Injuries / Availability

California: The Golden Bears report no fresh injury concerns heading into Saturday’s contest.

Stanford: The Cardinal are expected to have their full rotation available.

Environment

Maples Pavilion has been a reliable venue for Stanford, where they’ve gone 11-4 this season. California enters with confidence from strong offensive performances, making this a clash of home strength vs road-tested resilience.

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Best Bets and Prediction

Projected Final Score: Stanford 77, California 75

  • California +4.5 → Best Bet. Their offensive efficiency and free-throw shooting suggest they can stay within the number.
  • Under 144.5 → Total play. Both teams’ slower pace points toward a combined score below the line.

Stanford’s depth and shooting rhythm should carry them to victory, while California’s offense keeps the spread in play. Expect a moderately low-scoring contest with totals landing just under the posted number.

Handicappers and Service Plays

ACC games often create unique betting opportunities. Our Best Handicappers spotlight experts who consistently read market trends, while the Leaderboard highlights who’s riding hot streaks. Premium insights in Buy Picks provide deeper reasoning behind each wager. For contests like California vs Stanford, expert perspectives can help identify sharp angles in spreads and totals.