California-San Diego Tritons vs CSUN Matadors Picks and Predictions January 31st 2026

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California-San Diego Tritons vs CSUN Matadors Betting Preview

The California-San Diego Tritons head to Northridge to face the CSUN Matadors in a Big West Conference matchup at Premier America Credit Union Arena. UCSD enters with a 15-7 record and confidence from strong road performances, while CSUN looks to defend its 9-3 home mark after a convincing win over UC Davis. With the Tritons favored by 2.5 points, this contest highlights a battle between UCSD’s efficient shooting and CSUN’s rebounding dominance.

Line Movement and Odds

UCSD is favored, but CSUN’s home record makes this line worth tracking. Current market:

  • UCSD Spread: -2.5 (-114)
  • CSUN Spread: +2.5 (-109)
  • UCSD MoneyLine: -148
  • CSUN MoneyLine: +116
  • Total: 159.5 (-110)

Check the college basketball odds hub for real-time updates, especially as bettors weigh UCSD’s road efficiency against CSUN’s offensive pace.

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Matchup Breakdown

UCSD Outlook

The Tritons average 77.9 points per game, with Hudson Mayes, Bol Dengdit, and Tom Beattie leading the offense. Mayes’ 19 points and 12 rebounds vs UC Davis highlighted his versatility, while Dengdit’s 15 points vs UCSB showcased his consistency. UCSD’s efficiency (15-7 overall record; 7-2 on the road; 54.1% effective FG, 95th nationally) underscores their strengths. Their ability to score efficiently and perform well away from home makes them dangerous even as favorites.

CSUN Outlook

The Matadors average 81 points per game, with Joshua O’Garro, Mahmoud Fofana, and Josiah Davis driving production. O’Garro’s 21 points vs UC Davis highlighted his scoring, while Fofana’s 22 points and 10 rebounds showcased his dominance inside. CSUN’s efficiency (12-10 overall record; 9-3 at home; 39.3 rebounds per game, 22nd nationally) underscores their strengths. Their ability to rebound and score consistently at home makes them tough to beat in Northridge.

Key Factors

This matchup may hinge on rebounding and tempo. UCSD thrives on Mayes’ inside presence and Dengdit’s scoring, while CSUN must rely on O’Garro’s hot hand and Fofana’s rebounding to tilt the game. Execution in the final minutes will likely decide the margin.

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Injuries / Availability

UCSD: The Tritons report no fresh injury concerns heading into Saturday’s contest.

CSUN: The Matadors are expected to have their full rotation available.

Environment

Premier America Credit Union Arena has been a stronghold for CSUN, where they’ve gone 9-3 this season. UCSD, however, has shown resilience with seven road wins, making this a clash of Tritons’ road steadiness versus Matadors’ home dominance.

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Best Bets and Prediction

Projected Final Score: CSUN 79, UCSD 77

  • CSUN +2.5 → Best Bet. Their rebounding and home-court advantage suggest they can cover the spread.
  • Under 159.5 → Total play. UCSD’s slower pace points toward a combined score below the line.

CSUN’s depth and rebounding should carry them to a narrow victory, while UCSD’s shooting keeps the spread competitive. Expect a contest that leans lower-scoring, with totals landing just under the posted number.

Handicappers and Service Plays

Big West games often spotlight rebounding duels and tempo mismatches. Our Best Handicappers highlight analysts who specialize in mid-major conference trends, while the Leaderboard tracks who’s delivering consistent returns. For UCSD vs CSUN, expert breakdowns in Buy Picks can help bettors decide whether the spread or total offers the sharper edge.

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