Cal Women’s Basketball Falls Short in ACC Tournament Thriller

DULUTH, GA – The California Golden Bears women’s basketball team nearly completed a historic comeback, but ultimately fell to Syracuse 70-59 in the second round of the ACC Tournament at Gas South Arena in Duluth, Georgia, on Thursday evening. The attempted rally would have been the largest in ACC Tournament history.

Game Recap

Despite entering halftime trailing by 21 points, Cal fought valiantly in the second half, narrowing the deficit to just four points with over four minutes remaining. However, Syracuse responded and closed out the game, securing a 70-59 victory.

Key Performances

Sakima Walker led the Golden Bears with 19 points, shooting 9-of-15 from the field. Gisella Maul contributed 13 points and a strong rebounding performance with eight boards, going 10-for-12 from the free-throw line – the most free throws made by a Cal player in a single game since February 25, 2023. Mjracle Sheppard recorded a season-high five steals, matching her previous best against Charlotte on November 15.

Second-Half Surge

Cal’s defense intensified in the third quarter, forcing five turnovers in the first four minutes, which led to six points. The Bears continued to pressure Syracuse, forcing nine turnovers for 10 points in the quarter. Late in the third, a three-pointer by Puff Morris and a subsequent layup cut the deficit to 10 points heading into the fourth.

Fourth-Quarter Battle

The Bears continued their momentum at the start of the fourth quarter, with layups from Lulu Twidale and free throws from Maul bringing them within six points. Later, a layup by Walker and a three-pointer from Twidale brought Cal to within four points at the 4:04 mark. However, Syracuse answered with a three-point play to regain control, ultimately holding on for the win.

Coach Smith’s Perspective

“Obviously we’re disappointed that we don’t obtain to continue here in Atlanta,” said Cal head coach Charmin Smith. “We just had a really awful start against a really fine Syracuse team. I’m proud of how we fought in the second half to cut it to five, to have a chance. But ultimately we just dug ourselves too deep of a hole that we couldn’t get out of.”

Syracuse’s Leading Scorer

Uche Izoje led Syracuse with a strong performance, scoring 23 points and grabbing 10 rebounds.

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