Cal Women’s Basketball: Can They Overcome Struggles for ACC Tournament Run?
The California Golden Bears women’s basketball team is having a rough go in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). Injuries and a thin bench have really slowed things down, even though there was a lot of hype and a solid roster at the start.
The team made some noise in the NCAA Tournament last year but can’t seem to find their groove this season. With a 10-8 record and just one win in five ACC games, they’re hanging on to their tournament hopes by a thread.
Cal’s Journey Through the ACC
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Heading into ACC play, Cal had their sights set high. Last year’s tournament run was supposed to be the launchpad.
But after losing seven players—including four starters—things got bumpy fast. Their spot outside the NCAA Tournament bubble says a lot about what they’ve been up against.
Key Players and Injuries
Injuries have been a major headache. Freshman point guard Aliyahna “Puff” Morris was supposed to be a difference-maker, but a leg injury has kept her out of several games.
Other players have had to scramble to fill in. Backup center Claudia Langarita is also out, which hasn’t helped the already thin roster.
Even with all that, the Bears aren’t just rolling over. Transfers Sakima Walker and Mjracle Sheppard came in from the SEC and brought some much-needed experience.
Junior guard Lulu Twidale has really stepped up, too, and is turning into a key piece for Cal.
Challenges in Performance
It’s been a rollercoaster. Cal can’t seem to get past the top teams, going 0-6 against Quad One opponents.
That’s dragged them down to No. 61 in the NCAA’s tournament evaluation tool, which isn’t where they want to be.
Defensive Strengths
But hey, the defense has had its moments. They’ve held teams to 52 points or less in six games, which is no small feat.
Her Hoop Stats puts their defensive rating at 84.5, ranking them 56th nationally. That’s something to hang their hats on.
Offensive Struggles
Offense, though, is a different story. Their effective shooting percentage sits at 48.8%—not bad, honestly, but the pace is glacial.
It’s tough to build a lead when you’re not pushing the tempo or cashing in on open looks.
Depth and Inexperience
Head coach Charmin Smith keeps pointing to depth and inexperience as big issues. After the top seven players, the minutes and production really drop off.
Players like Naya Ojukwu and Grace McCallop have shown flashes, but they need more court time to really grow.
Expanding the Rotation
Smith wants to get more players involved. She’s convinced that a deeper bench is key if they want any shot at a run in the ACC tournament or a spot in the NCAA Tournament.
Looking Ahead
There are still 13 conference games left, so it’s not over yet. Their recent win against Wake Forest—where the defense actually clicked—gives a little hope.
If they can keep up that defensive energy and get something going on offense, maybe they can turn things around.
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Goals for the Remainder of the Season
Smith’s got her eyes on a few big goals. She wants a Quad One win, to knock off some top ACC teams, and to make a real run in the conference tournament.
That’s going to take steady play from the starters and more help from the bench—no way around it.
For more on Cal’s season and what they’re up against, check out the full article in the San Francisco Chronicle.
Conclusion
The Cal women’s basketball team faces a season packed with both challenges and fresh opportunities. Injuries have thinned their rotation, but the Bears aren’t backing down from the fight for an NCAA Tournament spot.
They’re working to expand their depth and find more consistency. I think their defensive strengths could really give them an edge in the ACC.
People are watching to see how the team adapts as the season unfolds. Honestly, with some smart adjustments—and maybe a little luck—the Bears might just surprise us with a memorable tournament run.