California Golden Bears vs
SMU MustangsPredictions & Preview

SMU Mustangs favored by 11.5 points in college hoops betting match-up against California Golden Bears

On Wednesday, January 29, the California Golden Bears will face off against the SMU Mustangs in a college hoops betting match-up at Moody Coliseum in Dallas, TX. This will be the first meeting between the two teams since 2014, with SMU being favored by 11.5 points and a total of 152.5 points. SMU initially opened as a 12-point favorite. For more information on this California vs. SMU prediction and other NCAAB picks for Wednesday night, continue reading.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Golden Bears +480 | Mustangs -685
• Spread: Golden Bears +11.5 (-110) | Mustangs -11.5 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 153.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that SMU will win straight-up is 87%.

California vs SMU Stats

California Golden Bears

The California Golden Bears have shown improvement in their recent games, going 4-2 SU and 3-3 ATS in their last six outings. They are coming off three straight wins, including a close overtime victory against Miami. Freshman guard Jeremiah Wilkinson has been a standout player, scoring 30 points in the last game. Leading scorer Andrej Stojakovic is expected to return from injury for the upcoming matchup against the Mustangs. On the season, California ranks 176th in offense and 264th in defense, with notable shooting percentages and rebounding statistics. Their defensive performance could be a point of improvement moving forward.

SMU Mustangs Analysis

The SMU Mustangs have recently shown strong performances, with a 4-1 SU and 3-2 ATS record in their last five games. Despite a heavy loss to Louisville, the team bounced back with a win over NC State, led by freshman center Samet Yigitoglu who scored 20 points and grabbed seven rebounds. The Mustangs have an offensive ranking of #17, scoring an average of 84.16 points per game and shooting well from the field and the free-throw line. Defensively, they have room for improvement, allowing their opponents to shoot over 41% from the field. Overall, the Mustangs have a power ranking of 79 and are 15-5 (10-10 ATS) for the season.

SMU Mustangs Poised to End Cal Golden Bears' Winning Streak

I anticipate that the Mustangs will bring an end to the Golden Bears' current winning streak. In their recent victory over Miami, Cal displayed weaknesses in their defensive strategy. The Golden Bears allow an average of 109.4 points per 100 possessions in conference play, ranking 16th in the ACC, and have an adjusted defensive efficiency rating of 108.4 points per 100 possessions, placing them at 219th in the nation. SMU, on the other hand, boasts a strong offensive presence and arguably a superior defensive capability compared to Cal. The team excels in shooting 3-pointers, making 38.3% of their attempts, ranking 20th nationally, and limits their opponents to 45.2% shooting from inside the arc, also ranking 20th. With key players Samet Yigitoglu and Yohan Traore leading the defense, the Mustangs are well-equipped to secure a victory, making them a favorable choice to cover the 11.5-point spread.

Sources: [ 2 ] [ 3 ]