Originally from Redwood High in Mill Valley, Carr played in 31 games last season with two starts, shooting 42% from the field and 72% from the line. He had the second-highest assist rate on the Bears behind Justin Pippen.

When the transfer portal starts in earnest next week, there will be a host of talented players in the mix. If Pippen and Dai Dai Ames both return, Carr will still be projected to come off the bench, but could see a significant lift in productivity and execution.

Cal has an NIL campaign kicking into high gear. They blasted through their original $250,000 goal on Friday to get Mark Madsen $500,000 (via a matching donation) and are closing in fast on higher goals.

Donate here to help support our Bears.

The California Golden Bears have needed a practice facility for their hoops programs for the longest time, and now they finally have one, thanks to a gift from the Goldman Family (as well as the Edelstones). Both Cal basketball teams have often used the Blue Gym on the third floor of the Recreational Sports Facility for practice, and now it’ll be permanently converted into their own dedicated facility for the private use of both the men’s and women’s basketball teams.

More from the official press release from Cal Athletics:

The University of California, Berkeley, has received a $10 million commitment from the Lisa and Douglas Goldman Fund to establish a dedicated practice facility for its men's and women's basketball programs.

The project, which will renovate and modernize the current Blue Gym at the Recreational Sports Facility through a partnership with Berkeley RecWell, will also include an updated strength and conditioning facility in Haas Pavilion.

"The new practice facility is a crucial step for us as we continue to build a championship-level program," Cal head men's basketball coach Mark Madsen said. "It will allow us to continue to recruit elite student-athletes that are the right fit for Cal and be vital for individual and team development. We are extremely grateful for the generosity of Lisa and Doug Goldman to help make this project a reality."

The facility will include a new floor and technological enhancements including replay screens and shot trackers. Not only will the modernized gym give Cal's basketball teams the flexibility to schedule practices that best fit the demands of their student-athletes, it will give them 24/7 access for individual training throughout the year.

The renovated strength and conditioning area will allow Cal's teams to ensure optimal training schedules. New improvements will also better leverage sports science innovation and improve lifting technique.

"I am so appreciative of the Goldmans for their generosity and continued support of Cal Athletics," Cal head women's basketball coach Charmin Smith said. "This facility fills an essential need for our student-athletes and is crucial in enhancing player development. A designated practice facility allows us to continue the pursuit of top talent and our quest for championships."

The dedicated facility will be vital as Cal's basketball programs move forward and compete with conference and national peers in the current dynamic landscape of intercollegiate athletics.

Additional support to further enhance the project is ongoing, with Mark '83 and Lori '84 Edelstone already making a significant commitment to the project as well.

"If a college wants to compete at the top level of Division I, a 24/7 practice facility is critical to attracting the top varsity basketball players," Doug Goldman '74, M.D., said. "When Cal-Berkeley was in the Pac-12, it was the final school to be lacking one when UCLA built its facility. When he made the lead gift to create that new practice facility at UCLA, our dear friend, Mo Ostin, of blessed memory, called me to tell me, "Now, you're next!" This has been a long time coming. But we now have a commitment to excellence in athletics, especially the revenue-producing sports, at the highest level of this otherwise exceptional University. After all, a school that is committed to exceptional academics should also be committed to exceptional athletics!".

The Goldman family is one of the most stalwart supporters of Cal Athletics, having made significant contributions to save Cal baseball, and also have the Goldman Plaza named for them along the Memorial Stadium concourse.

Cal Athletics is modernizing quickly, on both the fundraising and development front. More steps are needed, but these are the steps that are required if the Bears expect to survive the future wars of realignment. Good news for our Cal players, and hopefully it’ll pay off with even stronger teams as the transfer portal opens next week.

UPDATE: The initial goal of $250,000 has been raised, triggering the $250,000 matching donation and $500,000 going to the Cal basketball program. New goal is $350,000 for Cal fans to get us to $700,000!

It was a return to the standard of basketball that has long graced the corridors of the California Golden Bears this year, as Cal won 22 games and skirted the edge of the NCAA Tournament bubble. The Bears look to build on this success and make the Dance for the first time in a decade next season with another NIL fndraising campaign.

Cal has seen plenty of success from earlier NIL fundraising campaigns from its general fanbase, reaching over $1.2 million for football during College Gameday week and hitting $3 million over the holidays after Tosh Lupoi was hired. Attention now turns to the hardcourt, where resources have been a bit more scarce for Mark Madsen due to a decade of malaise and fairly muted support from athletic department leadership. There have been whispers of other programs taking notice of Madsen, so it’s more important than ever for the Cal fanbase to step up and give him the resources he needs to succeed.

This could be quelled by Cal fans hitting modest fundraising goals. The Bears would like to retain the majority of their starters, as top players like Justin Pippen and Dai Dai Ames figure to get major offers from top programs when the transfer portal opens next week.

Cal fans have already raised over 90% of their initial goal of $250,000, which with the help of an anonymous matching donor, will lead to half a million in funds for Cal men’s basketball. Let’s see if we can

You can donate here! Here’s the full message from Mark Madsen.

Cal Family,

I can’t tell you how thrilled I was with this past season and all of our collective success. Whether you were in Haas Pavilion cheering our team on or following from afar, please know how much we appreciate your engagement with our program during our first postseason appearance since 2017.

And the great thing is – this is just the beginning of what we are capable of, together.

With the transfer portal opening on April 7th, we are counting on our entire Cal community, myself included, to help us take a step forward as we prepare for the 2026-27 season. The only way we will build off the momentum from this year is by raising the necessary funds to retain our top talent and invest in new talent from the portal to deepen our team.

I am excited to share that we are launching our Fight for California Men’s Basketball Crowdfunding campaign for support of our Men’s Basketball Excellence Initiative leading into the portal window.

An anonymous donor and I have decided to join forces to offer a match to the Cal community. We will match dollar-for-dollar all contributions up to $250,000 from Tuesday, March 31st, through the opening of the portal next Tuesday, April 7th. Together If we reach our goal, we will raise $500,000 in impactful, new funding for Cal Men’s Basketball.

As you think about ways to support us, consider the following:

1. Make a gift of any size today!

2. Consider joining our Men’s Basketball Excellence Initiative

3. Get the word out to your peer group that Cal Men’s Basketball needs your support around this crowdfunding opportunity. Perhaps you have a fellow Cal alum who you know is passionate about the program. Connect them to our teammates in the Cal Athletics Fund and let’s get them invested in the program!

Please reach out to Devin Shallowhorn (dshallowhorn@berkeley.edu) and Tim McLaughlin (tmclaughlin@berkeley.edu) if you have any questions about this crowdfunding effort or joining the Men’s Basketball Excellence Initiative if you are willing to help me in our continued efforts to build a championship program.

Thank you so much for a season we won’t forget, and for considering partnering with me in building a championship team and an even brighter future for our program.

Go Bears!

Mark Madsen
Cal Men’s Basketball Head Coach

Cal wide receivers coach Ike Hilliard kept his early-spring assessment measured, balancing optimism with the reality of installation-heavy practices and a reshaped receivers room.

“Everything’s going just about as expected. Some good, some bad — that’s coaching. There’s a lot being thrown at these guys right now, and we’re trying to figure out who can handle what, how much, and how fast. But we’re right where we need to be two practices in.

The biggest thing is availability — we’ve stayed healthy, especially in my room, and that allows us to evaluate honestly. The effort’s been consistent, the focus has been there, and the mistakes — given the volume we’re installing — have been limited. That’s encouraging.

As a staff, we feel good about the foundation we’re laying. We’ll take a step back this week, let it breathe a little bit, and then come back ready to push forward again. But the work ethic, the attention to detail — that’s showing up every day.”

Hilliard emphasized versatility and complementary skill sets when describing a trio of receivers expected to anchor the offense, noting that each brings a distinct dimension while fitting into a broader schematic vision.

“They’re three uniquely different players, and that’s what makes the group exciting. Starting with Ian [Strong] — he’s the ‘tree’ in the room, the big body we can lean on physically. His catch radius, his ability in contested situations, that’s where he separates himself. We’re going to move him around, not just park him in one spot, and really maximize that size and length across the field.

With Cooper [Perry], you’re talking about a guy who can line up inside or outside, return punts, and threaten defenses from multiple angles. He’s instinctive, he’s got strong hands, and he’s got that short-area quickness where he can win in isolation. That kind of flexibility gives us options in how we build things week to week.

And then Chase [Hendricks] — people might not realize, but he was one of a small group nationally to go over 1,000 yards last season. That production matters. He’s a do-it-all player — perimeter, underneath, vertical game — and he brings a level of toughness and reliability that you want leading a room.

What ties all three together is their intelligence and communication. They talk, they see the game similarly, and that cohesion carries over into the offense as a whole.”

That cohesion, Hilliard suggested, extends to the quarterback, as the group works through timing, spacing and a new offensive structure.

“We’re excited about the connection that’s building. It’s still early, so we’re not trying to get ahead of it, but you can see the potential. The way we’re teaching stems, releases, route combinations — it’s new, and it’s challenging, but it’s also opening things up.

When you combine that with a quarterback who can process and make every throw, it gives you a chance. Now it becomes about protection, taking care of the football, and staying efficient. If you do those things consistently, you give yourself an opportunity every week.”

Drawing on his deep experience as a wideout and coach, which includes a national title as a player with Florida, Hlliard framed the program’s ambitions without placing artificial limits.

“I don’t think you put ceilings on what’s possible. College football has changed — you’ve seen programs rise quickly, you’ve seen teams build something in a short window. It starts with the right pieces, but it’s sustained by the work you put in every day.

For us, it’s about playing fast, playing physical, protecting the quarterback, and creating turnovers defensively. If you can do that — if you can control the things that lead to winning football — then you put yourself in position when it matters.”

Hilliard pointed to relationships and alignment within the staff as central to his move west, describing a collaborative environment under Tosh Lupoi.

“It really started with the people. The relationships, the conversations — there was a clear vision for what this could be, and that mattered. I’ve been around a lot of places, and when you find a group that’s aligned, that’s intentional about how they build a staff and a roster, you pay attention to that.

Since I’ve gotten here, it’s been seamless. The collaboration, the openness — it’s real. And for me, that’s what makes it exciting, because you feel like you’re building something together, not just installing plays.”

And, in lighter fashion, he acknowledged one additional factor in his transition to the West Coast.

“I’ve never spent time out here before, and I’ll say this — the weather doesn’t hurt. You start stacking good days like this, good people, good work environment… yeah, I understand the appeal. It’s a good place to be, and I’m looking forward to what we can build here.”

Welcome to the DBD, a Write for California community board where one can talk about anything – Cal-related or off-topic. Comment threads are sorted by topic. Anything is fine, so long as you're generally civil

Bay Area Soccer Returns

Both the San Jose Earthquakes and Bay FC began their 2026 seasons with home games at PayPal Park. The Earthquakes have started their respective seasons season as one of the hottest teams in MLS with 4 wins in 5 games, and a 7:1 score differential in those 5 games. A youth-centric roster, added with German Forward Timo Werner, has been a big part of the Quakes blazing goal-scoring start to Bruce Arena’s second season in charge. Niko Tsakiris, Jamar Ricketts and Timo Werner all have 2 assists a piece and have paced the Quakes in setting up goal scoring opportunities.

Bay FC also began their 2026 season with back to back home games. A 2-1 win over Denver Summit FC to start the NWSL campaign was overshadowed by a 3-1 loss to Angel City FC the following week. Midfielder Taylor Huff was also sent-off on a red card late into the second during the 7th minute of extra time. Bay FC would flip the score on their first road trip with a 3-1 over the North Carolina Courage. Christiana Girelli would assist in her second straight game as well, boosting the club to 2 wins in its first 3 games.

Steph Curry is close to return to the court

With the NBA regular season nearing the end, the race to a playoff spot is in full swing. The Warriors currently sit in the 10th seed spot for a playoff play-in, and are 3 games back of the 9th seed, Portland Trailblazers. Star guard Steph Curry, who had been out of the squad for the last couple months, is close to his return and is reportedly targeting the April 5th game against the Houston Rockets as his return to the court. The depleted Warriors team could use the return of their star as a spring board into a small spurt headed into the playoffs. Curry was seen warming up and practicing prior to their home game against the Spurs. He did not play in the game alongside Quinnen Post, Gui Santos, DeAnthony Melton and Gary Payton II.

Giants host Yankees to start 2026 MLB season

The Giants opened their season with the first ever MLB Opening Night game on Netflix against the New York Yankees, but it was not the start to the season that they or the fans had hoped for. A series sweep loss to the Yankees with only 1 run scored while giving up 13 was a shock to the squad. The Giants would recover the following week on a short roadtrip to San Diego, where they picked up their first 2 wins of the season and got the series win with victories 2 of the 3 games. New Manager Tony Vitello stuck with Logan Webb to pitch through his struggles, finishing with 104 pitches in just 6 innings while allowing 3 hits and 3 earned runs in his second start of the season. The Giants hitting has not fared any better with the team as a whole batting .201 and an OBP of .264. Despite the overall struggles on-year signing Luis Arraez has been a bright spot at second base with a .304 average with 7 hits through 23 at-bats.

San Jose Sharks chasing WildCard spot for 2026 playoffs

Behind the brilliance of Macklin Celebrini, the Sharks are just one point behind the Los Angeles Kings in the race to secure a spot in the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs. Celebrini would record 4 points against the Anaheim Ducks on Wednesday, the 5th time he as recorded 4 points this season. He would also become only the 5th ever Sharks player to reach the 40 goal mark after scoring 2 goals in the third period. His name will now be linked to other Sharks greats like Joe Pavelski, Patrick Marleau, Jonathon Cheechoo and Owen Nolan. With 9 games left in the regular season, the Sharks are certainly are becoming must watch TV behind just the second year sensation in Macklin Celebrini.

Key Upcoming Games

• San Jose Earthquakes

  • vs. San Diego FC at PayPal Park

  • Saturday April 4th, 7:30PM PT

• Bay FC

  • vs. Washington Spirit

  • Sunday April 5th, 2:00PM PT at PayPal Park

• San Francisco Giants

  • vs. NY Mets (April 2nd - April 5th) at Oracle Park

  • vs. Philadelphia Phillies (April 6th - April 8th) at Oracle Park

• Golden State Warriors

  • vs. Cleveland Cavaliers

    • Thursday April 2nd, 7:00PM PT at Chase Center

  • vs. Houston Rockets

    • Sunday April 5th, 7:00PM PT at Chase Center

  • vs. Sacramento Kings

    • Tuesday April 7th, 7:00PM PT at Chase Center

• San Jose Sharks

  • vs. Toronto Maple Leafs

    • Thursday April 2nd, 7:00PM PT at SAP Center

  • vs. Nashville Predators

    • Saturday April 4th, 7:00PM PT at SAP Center

  • vs. Chicago Blackhawks

    • Monday April 6th, 7:00PM PT at SAP Center

  • at Anaheim Ducks

    • Wednesday April 8th, 7:00PM PT at Honda Center

ARE YOU NOT ENTERTAINED?

Our lead store this weeks comes to us from the Smithsonian, recapping research by Alfonso Mañas, a sports historian at UC Berkeley. In a new paper recently published, Mañas “may have identified a depiction of a female hunter—known as a venatrix—in an ancient Roman mosaic”

“Women fighting beasts in arena games are attested by the written sources, but no visual source is known to show their image,” writes study author Alfonso Mañas, a sports historian at the University of California, Berkeley. As such, this mosaic may be “the first and only known image of a woman fighting beasts in the Roman arena.”

Read more about his paper here.

Hot Links

Flying Under the Influence

New research out of UC Berkeley found that those busy bees out pollinating your roses or wildflowers right now are probably doing it a bit buzzed. “A study by researchers at the University of California Berkeley has found that ethanol is surprisingly common in floral nectar, the sugary fuel that keeps pollinators alive. Yeast feeding on those sugars produces trace amounts of alcohol, and in this study, it showed up in 26 of the 29 plant species sampled.” Read more here. Now we understand a bit about why hummingbirds are always a little angry when they show up and your bird feeder is empty. I had similar reactions walking home some nights in Berkeley to find Bongo Burger was closed.

Off to the Races

Big story out of the East Bay this week is that Golden Gate Fields, the horse track facility in Albany is up for sale and might be purchased to be a new park. Berkeleyside covers the pending sale ($175M!) this week. Give it a read here.

Small Bites

• Bruce Jenkins was named to the Daily Cal Hall of Fame

• UC Berkeley is closing the math readiness gap

• Berkeley Alumni are finding new lives for plastic

This Week in e-Commerce

Wake up a new Gold Out piece just dropped.

This week in e-Commerce we highlight a new entry into the marketplace belt buckles! This would look great as part of your gold out ensemble! Get it on eBay for $55.

Golden Bear Honors

• Tonya Paulsson (Women’s Gymnastics) is your ACC All-Around Champion

• Despoina Drakotou, Feline Voordouw, and Julia Bonaguidi (Women’s Water Polo)were named to the Cutino Award Watch List

• Yamato Okadome took gold in the 100M Breaststroke with the second pest time in program history and is now an National Champion

• Annalise Newman-Achee (Women’s Gymnastics) was named to the WCGA All-American Second Team

• Tonya Paulsson (Women’s Gymnastics) was named the WCGA All-American Second Team

• Hideki Prather (Baseball) was named to the Buster Posey Award Midseason Watch List

• Jett Kenady (Baseball) was named to the Baseball America Midseason Freshman of the Year Watch List

• Otto Espinoza (Baseball) was named a Perfect Game Freshman Midseason All-American!

• Jett Kenady (Baseball) was named a Perfect Game Midseason Freshman All-American!

Cal Pros Recap

Baseball

Six Golden Bears wound up on opening day rosters (Andrew Vaughn with the Brewers, Dylan Beavers with the Orioles, Korey Lee with the White Sox, Lucas Erceg with the Royals, Marcus Semien with the Mets, and Bob Melvin with the A’s.)

Golf

Collin Morikawa withdrew from the Texas Open with back spasms, leaving a Masters return in doubt.

Basketball

Jaylen Brown is back after missing a few games with achilles tendinitis.

And so we find ourselves again at the end of another beautiful, perfect, Golden Nuggets. Thanks again for reading and see you next week!

Date: Thursday, April 2, 2026
Time: 7 p.m. PT
Location: Desert Financial Arena (Tempe, AZ)
Streaming/TV: ESPN+

Sadly, all good things must end. Cal Women’s Gymnastics’ championship-contending window closed at the end of 2025 when co-head coaches Justin Howell and Liz Crandall-Howell opted to move to the nearly-brand-new Clemson program. This change coincided with the regular graduation of Mya Lauzon (arguably the best of all time in program history), Maddie Williams, and Ella Cesario (who ended up using a 5th-year eligibility at Clemson this year) as well as the 3-year graduation of Cal commercial starlet eMjae Frazier (who might pull off a Fernando Mendoza by helping Florida to the NCAA title this spring). The Howells took over the program right after it was saved from the chopping block and took it to the brink of a national championship as the 2024 national runner-up.

Cal, last June under then-AD Jim Knowlton, opted to give Geralen Stack-Eaton her first shot as the head coach. She also brought along her husband, Rich Stenger, as the associate head coach. Stack-Eaton eventually brought back the recently graduated Lauzon and Williams as Assistant Coaches in this new regime.

Unfortunately, Cal lost Ondine Achampong to another ACL season-ending injury before the season started. Achampong, a Great Britain senior team member, had injured her ACL just before the Paris 2024 Olympics. She was back in a limited capacity last year as a freshman and was supposed to return to all-around this year. Now that will likely have to wait until 2028.

Nonetheless, Cal Women’s Gymnastics has a great team culture. The student-athletes who haven’t graduated have all stayed put and were ready to take on larger roles in a lineup that lost four all-around gymnasts from last year.

Junior Annalise Newman-Achee is one of those who stepped up to meet the challenge. Newman-Achee improved from just a bars specialist to a regular season All-American all-around second team honoree. She was one of the most steady performers for the Bears all-season long.

Freshman Tonya Paulsson also excelled as the team’s other all-around gymnast. Paulsson, who represent Taiwan internationally, also earned second team All-American honor for all-around and first team All-American honor for the uneven bars. Paulsson had some expected ups and downs during her freshman campaign, but might also have the highest ceiling this postseason.

Paulsson was recently named the ACC’s Gymnastics Newcomer of the Year.

She also won the ACC title for the uneven bars by earning a 9.950 score at the ACC Championships.

Seniors Casey Brown, Jayden Silvers, and Miki Aderinto increased their workload from just one routine to three, two, and two, respectively. Abbey Scanlon is back for her 5th-year but contributed more as another coach since she could not quite consistently match her success on the balance beam from 2025. However, Scanlon was in the beam lineup at the ACC Championships.

Junior Kyen Mayhew (vault and floor) and sophomore CJ Keuneke (floor) hold the same roles as before. Another freshman, Sarah Lee, fills the role of a beam specialist.

Rounding out the Cal lineup, sophomores Mya Wiley and Sage Melkonian became lineup mainstays in their second seasons.

When the regular season was over, Cal remained a solid squad, earning the 14th-best National Qualifying Team Score in the country and the 14th seed in the NCAA postseason. By apparatus, Cal is eighth on uneven bars, 19th on balance beam, 20th on floor exercise, and 21st on vault.

Realistically, Cal should advance, along with Cal alum eMjae Frazier’s Florida, as a team to Saturday’s Regional Final. However, this year’s younger team also needs to perform at its level even under the pressure of the postseason, which is never a given. I should note that Penn State did manage a higher season high (back in February) than Cal this year.

Should the Golden Bears survive and advance, they will meet the top 2 teams from the other half of the regional (No. 6 Georgia, No. 11 Michigan State, Brigham Young, and Southern Utah) for the two spots in the NCAA Championships, again in Fort Worth, Texas.

Even if the team does not qualify, the odds are decent that Cal might still qualify an individual or two.

Looking ahead, Cal got hit on the recruiting front when several commits switched to Clemson (or elsewhere) after the coaching change. This solid season and hopefully a bit of the postseason run will get recruiting on track before the 2027 freshman class. Canadian national team member Maddison Hajjar reclassified to join the team this season but did not see any competitive action (as far as I could tell). These next few years will be important in determining the program’s trajectory for the next decade.

Despite the recent success, Cal Women’s Gymnastics is not yet one of the fully endowed non-revenue sports programs. These programs all share some risk of needing short-term success to ensure longer-term existence.

GO BEARS!

The Berkeley Forum is a student-run organization designed to bring in notable speakers in to speak to Cal students and the wider Berkeley community. Cal head coach Tosh Lupoi was a guest earlier this spring, where he discussed his background.

Tosh Lupoi’s connection to University of California, Berkeley predates memory.

“Born in 1981 and there’s a picture of me in Cal attire as a baby. So it’s kind of reinforced — football was there in the crib. My father was a graduate assistant coach here and ironically coached Ron Rivera here, so I was introduced to Cal football very early and football in general.”

His foundation, though, was built in the East Bay — not on the field, but through family.

“My grandfather was an immigrant that came over living the American dream and kind of worked from the ground up. That was a big part of my entire family foundation — my early views and approach in life and everything I do. From a very early age, I was afforded the opportunity to get up really early and travel with him to the Oakland Marina on a consistent basis.”

“He opened a produce market, and at that time I claimed that I was working — I certainly wasn’t — I was playing around on the conveyor belt and jumping around on pallets. But my whole family spent every day working there. It was open 365 days a year, Christmas morning, 6:00 a.m. every morning. Just viewing him on a daily basis — his approach — that certainly played a huge role in how I approach every day today.”

On why football mattered

“It was applying those principles to a really challenging sport. I think just the camaraderie, the bonding involved, and being part of a culture where all different walks of life — economic backgrounds, racial backgrounds — all the differences come together for a universal goal. Seeing that throughout football is what I was drawn to.”

At De La Salle High School, Lupoi experienced dominance. At Cal, he encountered something different.

“We never lost a game in high school. Then coming to Cal, we lost plenty of games the first go-round. But then Jeff Tedford came along with a new staff, and being part of a full-fledged culture change was a really cool and unique experience.”

“Being part of a team that had been through a lot of adversity, and then building that rebuild to the point where winning 10 games a season plus was the expectation, being part of top-five teams — that was something really special.”

On losing and learning

Lupoi’s early competitiveness was extreme.

“Broken windows, things of that nature — immaturity there. I don’t like to lose, and that competitive nature goes into all aspects of life, how I live my life and what we promote in our organization.”

“When you start to mature and understand, you end up really learning a lot more from the losses and the hard times than the victories and the good times. That’s what I’ve grasped going back to those days and even now — my greatest growth experiences come more from the challenges and the losses.”

When he was asked to reflect on a bad loss, the national championship loss to Clemson as Alabama defensive coordinator sticks out.

“As the defensive coordinator at Alabama, we went undefeated, shut out LSU in Death Valley, won the Iron Bowl, beat Oklahoma in the semifinal, and then went to the national championship and got roasted by Trevor Lawrence and Clemson.”

“That’s one that stands out — what I could have done better in that moment. It’s so easy to make excuses, blame injuries, whatever it may be. But instead, how could we have utilized our personnel better knowing what we had going into the game? Those are the things you grow from.”

“Pain is only worth it if you learn from it. Never waste it.”

On leadership and standards

“Words are great. Things you write up on the wall, T-shirts — they’re great motivational tools. But at the end of the day, the challenge is being a man or woman of action.”

“That loyalty to the game, that mindset of outworking your competition and your teammates, being part of a healthy confrontational environment — being able to call out a teammate as long as you’re the one leading that expectation.”

That standard shows up daily.

“The goal is to attack today. That’s the goal. How are we going to win today? Those are words, but I was in here myself at an early time, setting the tone — working out, committing to a diet, getting here before workouts. Our entire staff is out on the field every day with our guys, going through that fire together.”

On discovering coaching

After injuries ended his playing career, Jeff Tedford offered him a path forward.

“I had adversity — that’s an easy way to say why I didn’t make it in the NFL. I broke my foot three different times. The fact is I wasn’t talented enough to continue that career.”

“That same day, Coach Tedford offered me the opportunity to come back as a graduate assistant. It probably took all of 36 hours where I was like, this is what I want to do for the rest of my life.”

The job demanded everything.

“Every duty was put on your shoulders. Sometimes that extended well beyond football — dry cleaning, pickups, daycare, dog care, house care. But I viewed the leader of the program, and he was sleeping in his office, so I’m not going to go home before the boss goes home.”

“I’d go get a bunch of towels from the bathroom, lay them down like a dog bed in my office, and it was great. I was living the dream.”

On recruiting and talent acquisition

Lupoi views recruiting through a broader lens.

“The strongest organizations in the world prioritize talent acquisition. Finding great people is rule number one. It’s not different in our profession.”

“Some coaches have the philosophy — I’m going to be a great coach or I’m going to be a great recruiter. My attempt was to be great at both.”

His reasoning is simple.

“We defended passes really well when Nnamdi [Asomugha] was at corner. When we threw the ball to DeSean Jackson or Keenan Allen, it worked a lot better than when we didn’t. There is an element of — this makes sense.”

Mentors reinforced that belief.

“Working with Nick Saban, statistically the best to ever do it, and Urban Meyer — rule number one, talent acquisition. That keeps getting reaffirmed.”

On NIL and the changing sport

“A marquee player — a commonality across the country — is well north of $1 million per year. So I think just the awareness of even knowing that is important.”

“Not devaluing $1,000, $5,000, $20,000 contributions, but understanding where that gets if you want to compete.”

He pointed to programs that have capitalized on the shift.

“Indiana, two and a half years ago, people might not have known they had a football program. Look where they’ve grown with strong NIL backing, corporate sponsorship, and a great culture.”

On fixing college football

“If I were to improve it, we would start our season mid-August, continue through the season, end around Thanksgiving, conference championship into the playoffs — just continue the season similar to the NFL model.”

“We were the number one seed [at Oregon in 2024] and sat around for 40 days. Not a single coach wants to do that.”

Still, he acknowledges the broader reality.

“If the TV ratings are extremely high and the revenue continues to increase, it’s going to be very difficult to improve or fix anything.”

On internal standards

“Whether it raises your bar or the media’s bar or a fan’s bar — I don’t care at all. I’m already my biggest critique.”

“I’m only going to take criticism from somebody that I would seek advice from.”

“Our body of work leading up to September is either going to put us in position to compete or not. That’s going to be decided tonight, tomorrow morning, tomorrow night.”

On mental discipline

“Learn to control your thoughts versus listen to them. When you identify what’s most important to you, you eliminate so much unnecessary stress.”

“If social media is really important — opinions from people you don’t know — that’s going to be a dramatic stress. But if what matters is how your wife views you, how your mentors view you, then you can eliminate everything else.”

“What you write down and what you review on a consistent basis ultimately becomes your behavioral patterns.”

On building at Cal

“Being at a place that represents the number one public institution in the world, and tying that in with success on the field — that’s something I take a lot of pride in.”

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Saturday, Game 1: Cal 2 - 6 Notre Dame
After the first game of the series was postponed to Sunday due to weather issues at Melissa Cook Stadium, the Bears took the field for their first game on Saturday. Kiki Mashhoud was given the starting nod by head coach Steve Singleton to start off the series. The sophomore has been called upon in nearly every game since leading Cal to their first conference win against UNC two weeks prior. Mashhoud kept the Irish controlled through the first two innings of play by throwing a 1-2-3 inning with only seven pitches in the first, and limiting Notre Dame to just one run from an RBI ground out in the second.

@calsb

Cal Softball on Instagram: "Back at it.

🆚 Notre Dame
🕐 10 a.…

In the top of the third, Cal rallied to take their first lead of the series 2-1. With two outs down, Emma Jackson reached first base on a five pitch walk. From there, Cal quickly showed Notre Dame they would not be deviating from the aggressive baserunning game plan the Bears have been following this year. Jackson stole second shortly into the next at-bat, and Maddie Rey would do the same after reaching on an error that got Jackson to third. Carly Raven then knocked a 2-
RBI single into center field, bringing both home.

Notre Dame did not allow Cal to hold the lead for long. The Irish came back in the bottom of the same frame, with three consecutive at-bats bringing in three runs with the bases loaded before Cal finally ended the inning. In the following frame, center fielder Mickey Winchell picked up a one out double that would bring an end to Mashhoud’s day in the circle. Mashhoud was relieved by Mya McGowan having thrown 3.1 IP, 7 H, 5 ER, and 1 BB. A pair of doubles after the pitching change by second baseman Ava Zachary and catcher Hayden Kyne put Notre Dame up 6-2. From there both sides went completely silent offensively, with neither team scoring another run for the rest of the game. Despite the Bears’ threatening in the sixth with runners on second and third, Notre Dame was able to cruise to a 6-2 game one victory.

@calsb

Cal Softball on Instagram: "Doubleheader in The Bend to close o…

The Golden Bears recorded 4 hits on 27 at-bats, and reached first an additional four times through walks and errors. Carly Raven went 2-3 at the plate, hitting two singles and bringing in Cal’s 2 runs. Emma Jackson earned one stolen base, while Maddie Rey picked up two. WP: Kami Kamzik (4-4) 6.0 IP, 4 H, 2 R, 1 ER, 2 BB, 4 K. LP: Kiki Mashhoud (2-6) 3.1 IP, 7 H, 5 ER, 1 BB.

Sunday, Game 2: Cal 10 - 2 Notre Dame
Cal reversed their fortunes in game two in South Bend, despite being put at a disadvantage early when right fielder Kyndal Todd was ejected from the game for calling too many offensive conferences. With the series up for grabs, Coach Singleton turned to one of the Golden Bears’ most effective pitchers, Layna Gerhard, to start in the circle for the first game in Sunday’s double header. Notre Dame scored one off an RBI single from Kyne, which would be the Fighting Irish’s only score for most of the game as Gerhard locked down the bottom half of each inning she threw in.

@calsb

Cal Softball on Instagram: "An eventful third for the Bears!

…

The Golden Bears quickly tied the game in the top of the second inning. Carly Raven and Anaya Togia kicked off the inning with back-to-back singles, and a sacrifice fly from Natalie Marshall brought home the tying run. Notre Dame closed the inning without giving up another run, but the Bears were already rolling. In the bottom of the following inning, Cal ripped off a massive five run lead they would never look back from. With the bases loaded off consecutive hits from Xiomei Geluz, Gator Robinson, and Kayla Lee; and only one out down, Raven began a rally with an RBI fielder’s choice that kept the bases juiced. On the following at-bat, Kayli Counts brought in two more with a 2-RBI single, and Marshall followed that up with a 2-RBI double down the left field line to put Cal ahead 6-1. Rey added one more in the top of the fourth, giving the Bears a six run advantage.

The Fighting Irish took one back in the bottom of the fifth, thanks to Kyne hitting a sacrifice fly to left field that brought home a runner from third. However that would be Notre Dame’s last score of the game, as their frigid bats remained cold in the final innings. Meanwhile Cal’s bats kept going. In the top of the sixth, Raven reached first thanks to a field error, allowing Robinson to score from third base, and Counts hit an RBI fielder’s choice that brought in Cal’s ninth run.

@calsb

Cal Softball on Instagram: "Left no doubt.

#GoBears"

After five strong innings of pitching, Coach Singleton called on reliever/closer Taylor Peacock to relieve Layna Gerhard and close out the game. Gerhard finished her outing having thrown 5.0 IP, 6 H, 2 ER, 3 BB, and 2 Ks, and Peacock kept the Irish entirely off the board through the sixth and seven, going 2.0 IP and 1 H from 7 batters faced and 21 pitches thrown. The Bears wrapped up game one with a final run off an RBI single from Lee, securing a 10-2 victory for California and setting up the series finale to decide the series.

The Bears recorded 12 hits on 33 at-bats, with Kayla Lee going 4-5 with 1 RBI and four consecutive singles, Natalie Marshal going 2-2 with 3 RBI’s and a double, and Kayli Counts going 1-3 with 3 RBI’s. From the field: Cal’s aggressive baserunning strategy paid out massively, with 6 stolen bases being recorded between Kyndal Todd (1), Kaylia Counts (1), Carly Raven (2), and Kayla Lee (2). WP: Layna Gerhard (4-2) 5.0 IP, 6 H, 2 ER, 3 BB, 2 K. LP: Micaela Kastor (3-9) 2.2 IP, 6 H, 6 ER, 1 K.

Sunday, Game 3: Cal 7 - 9 Notre Dame (8)

Following a short break after game two, Cal and Notre Dame returned to the field for the rubber match of their three game series. Cal appeared to pick up right where they left off from the previous game, as the Bears offense took a fast 1-0 lead. Lee started the inning by knocking a single into left field, stealing second, and advancing to third on a wild pitch before a ground out from Rey brought Lee home. A pop-up to Notre Dame’s pitcher Brianna Weiss shortly thereafter ended the inning before a rally could start.

@calsb

Cal Softball on Instagram: "DON’T LET HER GET HOT

#GoBears"

Kiki Mashhoud took to the circle for Cal in the series finale, looking to square away a second Bears victory in South Bend. Notre Dame however was looking to fight this one out to the very end, the lead shifting multiple times throughout the game. Down one with a pair of runners on first and second and one out, Hayden Kyne sent the second pitch of her at-bat over the fence in center field to give the Irish a 3-1 lead. Cal took one back in the next frame, with Todd taking off for home on a throwing error committed by shortstop Avery Houlihan. The lead returned to Cal in the third inning when Raven hit a 2-run bomb of her bouncing off the scoreboard in center field, putting the Bears up by one. Later on in the same inning with two outs and the bases loaded, Robinson’s hands are hit by a pitch, giving Cal the 5-3 advantage.

Notre Dame came back in the fourth, starting off with a single and double to put runners on second and third, and spelling an end to Mashhoud’s day. Taylor Peacock was again called upon in relief, and Mashhoud ended her day with 3 IP, 10 H and 5 ER. The Irish wasted no time, scoring two immediately after the pitching change from an RBI sacrifice fly and an RBI double to even things up at 5-5. The tie game stood for an entire inning, until Raven returned to the plate in the top of the sixth. With Rey on second, Raven repeated her third inning performance by going yard for a second time and handing Cal a 7-5 lead. Notre Dame refused to go down, and climbed back with a pair of RBI singles in the sixth to bring things within one.

@calsb

Cal Softball on Instagram: "8 ➡️ 2 double play to end the threa…

In the seventh inning, a lineout and throw out to second appeared to be the game sealing double play Cal needed to take the series. However, the inning continued after the umpire’s review determined Notre Dame’s baserunner had been obstructed, negating the final out. Shortly thereafter, Notre Dame pinch hitter Lily Hagan knocked a game-tying single up the middle, sending game three into the extras.

After a scoreless top of the eighth from Cal, Mya McGowan was called upon to relieve Peacock. Peacock finished her outing with 4.0 IP, 5 H, 2 R, 1 ER, 1 BB, and 2 Ks. Notre Dame’s Mickey Winchell kicked off the bottom of the eighth with a single, and Ava Zachary followed that up with a walk-off home run to left field to take the game and the series for Notre Dame.

@calsb

Cal Softball on Instagram: "THEY LET HER GET HOT 🔥 🔥

#GoBea…

At the plate in the second half of Sunday’s double header, Cal recorded 8 hits on 31 at bats. Carly Raven went 2-2 with a pair of 2-run homers, Maddie Rey went 2-4 with an RBI and a double (extending her streak to 12 consecutive games with at least one hit), and Kayla Lee went 2-5 with a pair of singles. Five bases were stolen by Rey (2), Lee, (1), Raven (1), and Kayli Counts (1). The Bears stole a total of 11 bases from the Fighting Irish. From the field: Gator Robinson was credited with an error, and Cal turned two double plays. An 8-2 double play in the third, and a 4-6-3 double play in the fifth. WP: Kami Kamzik (5-4) 1.0 IP, 1 K, 3 BF. LP: Mya McGowan (3-7) 0.1 IP, 2 H, 2 ER, 1 K.

With another ACC series in the books, and the Golden Bears half way through ACC play, here’s a look at Cal’s leaderboard: Kayla Lee reached the top spot in batting average after a spectacular 6-10 showing over the weekend, while Gator Robinson and Kayli Counts are tied for most hits at 31. After smashing a pair of runs against Dayton and another pair against Notre Dame in game three, Carly Raven has reached the top of the home run leaderboard with 7–sharing the crown with Kyndal Todd. Raven also holds the top spot in RBI’s with 27. Lee and Counts also share the title for most stolen bases, with 10 bases each stolen from Cal’s opponents. From the circle, Layna Gerhard holds the team’s best ERA (5.49), and Mya McGowan is Cal’s leader in strikeouts (23).

@calsb

Cal Softball on Instagram: "1️⃣ 1️⃣ stolen bases on the day for…

What’s Next?

The Golden Bears return home to the Bay Area for a three game series against a dominant Louisville (30-7, 6-3 ACC) softball team in Saratoga, CA, from Thursday, April 2nd to Saturday, April 4th. Games one and two will begin at 2pm PST, while game three will begin at noon. All games will be available to watch via streaming at ESPN+. Go Bears!

Michael Hutchings is back in the Bay Area and leaning on both personal roots and program identity as he takes over the defense for the California Golden Bears entering spring practice.

A De La Salle High School product, Hutchings described the opportunity as a return home after years away in coaching.

“It’s a great opportunity. Being local and a native here is special. It’s almost like a full-circle moment.”

Hutchings said his connection to the program dates back to childhood, when he followed former Cal standouts like Aaron Rodgers, DeSean Jackson and J. J. Arrington.

“You grew up watching those guys. Knowing the history of the place, guys you idolized as a kid, that’s what stands out.”

On the field, Hutchings said his defensive approach will mirror the program-wide pillars established by head coach Tosh Lupoi, emphasizing effort, execution, and cohesion over scheme.

“Relentless effort, ball excellence, power of unit, those are the things that need to jump off the screen. That’s what the defense will look like.”

Rather than focusing on specific schemes, Hutchings pointed to play style and identity as the defining traits he wants opponents to see on film.

“When somebody turns on the tape, those are the things that need to stand out first. Really just play style and how we approach our job.”

Hutchings also credited the program’s push to reconnect with alumni as a key factor in building culture during the offseason.

“It’s been huge this winter. It’s about team building, bringing people together, creating camaraderie and relationships.”

Former players such as Marshawn Lynch and Cam Jordan have spoken to the team, sharing experiences from their careers and reinforcing the program’s expectations.

“Just hearing those guys’ journeys, how they stayed on top of things, what they went through, it adds to our guys’ experience.”

Like offensive coordinator Jordan Somerville, Hutchings is stepping into a coordinator role for the first time, acknowledging the adjustment that comes with it.

“Any time you’re doing something for the first time, there’s going to be a learning curve. There’s some stuff you can’t simulate when you’re not in that seat.”

He said having Lupoi’s experience, particularly on defense, will be a key resource throughout the transition.

“You’ve got Tosh in the room. He’s led a top defense the last few years. He’s an open door. We’ve had plenty of conversations about how to approach it.”

Hutchings added that his development has also been shaped by previous coaching stops, blending those influences with Lupoi’s guidance as he settles into the role.

“Combining the people I’ve worked for, having Tosh in the building, you’re learning on the job as you go.”

As spring begins, Hutchings said the focus will remain on establishing identity and evaluating how players respond within the system.

“Really just taking the necessary steps and building it the right way.”

Welcome to the DBD, a Write for California community board where one can talk about anything – Cal-related or off-topic. Comment threads are sorted by topic. Anything is fine, so long as you're generally civil

Jordan Somerville outlined an aggressive, player-centered offensive vision as the California Golden Bears opened spring practices, emphasizing mentality, adaptability, and collaboration in his first opportunity as a coordinator. Somerville said the foundation of the offense begins with mindset rather than scheme.

“The biggest thing is ill intent and explosive mentality. What is it going to look like on tape? It’s all 11 playing with ill intent and explosive mentality. All 11 playing for each other.”

That approach aligns with head coach Tosh Lupoi’s broader cultural emphasis on unity and effort, with Somerville stressing that execution will be defined collectively.

“It all goes back to people. Who are the people on the grass? That’s what it centers around.”

Somerville is stepping into his first coordinator role, but said he has intentionally surrounded himself with experienced voices, including assistant head coach Nick Rolovich.

“I haven’t been a coordinator before, not naive to that. So to surround myself with wisdom and guys with a lot of experience is critical.”

He pointed to Rolovich as a key resource in navigating the transition.

“Rolo has been awesome. Just a wealth of knowledge and information to sit in the room and lean on.”

Somerville also credited Lupoi’s leadership style, dating back to their time together at Oregon Ducks football, as a driving force behind the program’s energy.

“Relentless. The guy is nonstop. Anything he sets his mind to, he’s going to go and get. When you can chase that energy, watch out.”

While Somerville has worked in multiple systems across college football and the NFL, he said his offensive philosophy is the product of years of observation and adaptation.

“You keep a catalog or a journal of everything you’ve been around — what you would want to do, what you wouldn’t want to do. Your personality as a coach comes into play.”

He downplayed the idea of a dramatically different scheme from previous seasons, instead pointing to execution and personnel as the defining factors.

“Everybody’s going to run some type of zone. Everybody’s going to run some type of gap. The biggest difference is how we go about doing it.”

Spring practices will play a key role in evaluating personnel and tailoring the system accordingly.

“We’re going to get good information come springtime of who those guys are.”

Somerville also highlighted quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele as a centerpiece of the offense, praising both his character and competitiveness.

“Person first, everything that’s said about him is accurate. He’s awesome to be around. Super competitive.”

In the receiver’s room, Somerville pointed to the addition of Ike Hilliard as a major asset, citing his experience and teaching ability.

“As calm as it gets, the way he goes about teaching, getting a guy like that in the room, you can’t take that for granted.”

As spring unfolds under a more physical practice structure, Somerville embraced the return to contact as a necessary part of development.

“Hitting is part of the game. That’s to be expected.”

With installation just beginning, Somerville said the offense will ultimately be defined by how players respond to the system, and how the system adapts in return.

“It’s directing and channeling that. Seeing how they adapt, and how we adapt to them.”

YOUR BEARS ARE IN THE FINAL FOUR.

So far – with your backing – we have taken down Alabama, Seattle U, UC Santa Cruz, and Oklahoma State. Now, just two more wins stand between us and yet another championship for Cal!*

*yes, we now have to beat the Slugs one more time thanks to a bracketing quirk that eliminates folks who bring zero points and rewards folks who brought donations but “lost.”

You all have already been so generous with your support for our little community of Puyallup, Washington. I’ve purchased copious amounts of Cup Noodles, which probably doesn’t seem like it would be a high need item, but actually helps a lot of our kids get through the day without being hungry. Here’s just a little bit of what we’ve purchased so far:

If I don’t get another penny in donations, we will have already done so much good for battling food insecurity around us.

BUT …

If you want to LEAVE NO DOUBT …

Our final two pickups for the final two rounds are this week, on Wednesday and Friday. If you’re feeling even more generous than you’ve already been, I want to make sure you have the opportunity to support us one more time and ensure VICTORY for the BEARS!

If you’ve got one more donation in you, you can send it to me via Venmo (@Jeffrey-Nusser), or PayPal (jeff.nusser@gmail.com), or Cash App ($Nusscoug), or Apple Cash (send me an email and I’ll send you my number) or good ol’ fashioned check in the mail (again, send me an email and I’ll send my address). Venmo is definitely easiest.

GO BEARS!

Welcome to the DBD, a Write for California community board where one can talk about anything – Cal-related or off-topic. Comment threads are sorted by topic. Anything is fine, so long as you're generally civil

While the California Golden Bears were not quite the usual threats in the team national title chases at the recent NCAA Swimming and Diving Championships, the National Championship streak has been extended to 52 years, thanks to the three individual titles won in Atlanta. Dating back to the 1973-74 school year (but not counting the COVID-shortened 2019-20 school year), Cal Athletics has claimed at least one national title (team, individual, relay, doubles, boat) in every school year.

Better yet, the three titles were won by two underclassmen.

They were surrounded by other young Golden Bears that helped the women to 4th overall and men to 7th. Reminder that top-16 finishers earn team points with the A-Finalists being the top-8 finishers (and a trip on the podium).

Freshman Claire Weinstein already has the title of USA Olympic medalist (Silver in the 4x200m Relay at the 2024 Paris Games) before matriculating at Cal. She added NCAA national champion to her growing resume.

Weinstein pulled off a mild surprise of a victory in the 500y Freestyle.

With a time of 4:30.09, Claire Weinstein managed to beat her next best competitor, Texas’s Jillian Cox, by about 1.5 seconds.

Weinstein had finished second to Cox in the 1650y (aka the swimming mile) Freestyle earlier in the week. Her third individual event was an 8th place finish in the 200y Freestyle. She was also a part of the Cal 800y Free relay that finished 3rd and 400y Free relay that placed 4th. A very impresive NCAA debut for the Cal freshman.

Of course, Weinstein is just a part of the very strong freshman class that is expected to return the Golden Bears to team national contender status soon. Fellow freshman Teagan O’Dell (200y IM runner-up, 400y IM 3rd place, 200y Back 6th place) was also brilliant. Annie Jia added a 5th place in 100y Fly. Ella Cosgrove scored a point by placing 16th in 500y Free. Other freshmen who made their NCAA debuts were Alexa McDevitt, Elle Scott, and Silje Slyngstadli.

The realistic hope is for these swimmers to duplicate the jump that sophomore Mia West made this season. West was a member of Cal NCAA relays in her freshman season but made a tremendous stride in her sophomore campaign, including winning the program’s first ACC title (200y IM which she didn’t swim at the NCAA). West placed 7th in 200y Free (ahead of Weinstein) and 3rd in 200y IM (just behind O’Dell).

Fellow sophomore and French Olympian Mary-Ambre Moluh also had a strong meet by placing 4th in 100y Back, 12th in 50y Free, and 6th in 100y Free (setting a school record, which is impressive given Cal’s history even if these swimming times are always getting shorter every year).

Another French Cal Olympian, graduate student Lilou Ressencourt concluded her Cal career with 14th in 100y Fly and 8th in 200y Fly.

Junior Ava Chavez also scored points with a 13th place in 200 IM.

On the men’s side, Cal does break their long streak of finishing in the top-2 as a team at the NCAA. This was expected given how much experience the Golden Bears lost to graduation from the squad that placed 2nd in 2025.

The dip should be just temporary given how much young talent are on the team.

Sophomore Yamato Okadome swept the two breaststroke events at the NCAA to highlight another strong week at the nationals for Cal. As a team, Cal earned 35 All-American honors (corresponding to events where Bears scored points by placing in the top-16).

Okadome won his first NCAA national title in the 100y Breast.

He followed it up with a second title in the 200y Breast.

Cal Men’s Swimming and Diving also got strong performances from their freshmen with the trio of Ryan Erisman (an up-and-comer on Team USA), Casper Puggaard (from Denmark), and Martin Wrede (from Germany) making immediate impacts. Erisman scored points in 400y IM (5th), 1650y Free (10th), and 500y Free (9th). Puggaard placed 16th in 200y Fly. Wrede earned 16th in 50y Fly.

Junior US Calympian Keaton Jones took 7th (200y Free) and 9th (200y Back). 5th year Evan Petty and sophomore Lucca Battaglini also earned points. Diver Joshua Thai concluded his Cal career by scoring points in his 3rd consecutive NCAA Championships: Thai placed 6th in platform diving.

After the NCAA, it was announced that Associate Head Coach David Marsh will be leaving the program to spend more time with his family on the East Coast (even though his wife is a Cal alum). Marsh stepped in for the Golden Bears when hen-assistant Chase Krietler took a paternity leave. His role expanded, especially on the women’s side, due to the whole Terri McKeever scandal and the expansion of Dave Durden’s role to oversee both programs. Marsh may be credited for tactic of Cal adding some of the more mature international swimmers (who also get a Cal graduate school certificate) by training and racing for the Bears.

Of course, the transfer portal has changed the game for all sports. Cal’s freshman success in 2026 may or may not lead to further development and success at Cal.

Nonetheless, Cal Aquatics being one of the best funded programs in the country should ensure the short-term and long-term success of the two swimming and diving programs. With LA 2028 Games coming up soon, Cal should be able to add a few more impact scorers from the international scene in the next couple of years in addition to the steady pipeline of traditional student-athletes. That and the continue development of student-athletes already in Berkeley may make Golden Bears realistic national title contenders as soon as 2027.

GO BEARS!

Cal resumed their rigorous travel schedule with a weekend trip across the country to David F. Couch Ballpark in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, where the Wake Forest Demon Deacons hosted the Golden Bears. The last time these two teams faced off, California pulled off an upset victory in the Atlantic Coast Conference baseball tournament as the lowest seed, beating the 8-seeded and NCAA Division I Tournament-bound Demon Deacons 14-12 in the second round before Georgia Tech sent the Bears home on a 10-3 blowout loss.

This season, Wake Forest has improved in getting on base and has worked a 17-7 record entering the weekend series, while California collapsed after amassing a 13-3 record with an 11-game winning streak during that span to open the year. California led in each of their last three games against the Boston College Eagles before losing the series via sweep. Head Coach Mike Neu’s record against the ACC after this weekend sits at 10-29.

Game 1, Friday 3/27/2026: California 5 – Wake Forest 9

The California Golden Bears returned to action after a week-long rest to travel back across the country and play in a second consecutive East Coast series. Mike Neu and pitching coach Chris Bodishbaugh stuck with the same three-man rotation we have gotten used to this season, with Oliver de la Torre getting the opening nod on Friday night against Sophomore UNC Wilmington transfer Cameron Bagwell.

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The Bears jumped on the board first against Bagwell, who entered Friday’s game with a 2.77 ERA after going 7.0 innings against the Liberty Flames last week, as Hideki Prather jumped on the first pitch of the ballgame again (first time against UCI) to pick up his seventh home run of the season. Lawson Olmstead followed by launching a two-run home run with Kenady on first to extend his hitting streak to eight games, as well as putting Cal ahead 3-0, only for Cade Campbell to join the party and go back-to-back with Olmstead on the very next pitch to make it 4-0 California.

de la Torre had one of his best outings this season for the Bears, going 5.1 innings and striking out nine Deacons while allowing just four hits. He had to be pulled in the 6^th inning due to Cal making three throwing errors amidst heavy rainfall that would allow Wake Forest to score three runs before Cole Clark came in to stop the bleeding. The game was then suspended due to the weather and resumed the following morning with Cal up by just the one run.

When the game resumed the next morning, Clark came back out for the Bears and retired the Deacons’ batters in order before surrendering back-to-back base hits and a sac-bunt in the 8^th that would bring Otto Espinoza into the game with runners in scoring position. Otto hit his first batter to load the bases, and then Jackson Miller doubled down the left field line to put Wake Forest ahead for the first time in the game, and give them a lead they would never give up, as they would finish the inning scoring five runs on four hits and one error to beat California 9-5. The losing streak extends. Game 1: Wake Forest. WP: Evan Jones (3.0 IP, K, H) LP: Cole Clark (2.0 IP, 2 ER, 2 H, K)

Game 2, 3/28/2026: California 1 – Wake Forest 4

While California continues to struggle, the one thing that really rubs salt in the wounds is the fact that they seem to score first. For five straight games, they were the first team to jump on the scoreboard before ultimately collapsing to defeat. In this case, there was no early lead. Jordy Lopez got the game started for the Bears with a leadoff single and a stolen base against Sophomore Chris Levonas, but Cal could not get a run across as the Deamon Deacons plated two unearned runs in the bottom half of the 1^st against Ethan Foley to take a 2-0 lead over the Golden Bears.

Foley lasted just 4.2 innings against Wake Forest, making this his shortest outing of the season, while he still only gave up two earned runs on a two-run home run from Kade Lewis in the 5^th inning, but could not keep his fastball under control as he walked four batters in this game.

Cal was able to avoid a shutout on a Carl Schmidt RBI-single to right that brought home Daniel Murillo from third base, but that would be all of the runs Cal would score as their offense would generate just five hits against the Demon Deacon pitching and extend the losing streak to 10 games. Garrett Mackowiak, Ryan Spalliero, Quinn Larson, and Cade Colombara combined for 3.1 shutout relief innings for Cal, but that would not be enough to awaken a sleeping offense. Game 2: Wake Forest. WP: Chris Levonas (6.1 IP, 5 H, ER, 10 K) LP: Ethan Foley (4.2 IP, 6 H, 4 R, 2 ER, 4 BB, K)

Game 3, 3/29/2026: California 5 – Wake Forest 3

The streak finally ends here. California was able to pull off an “upset” victory over Wake Forest on the back of their day-three starting pitcher, Gavin Eddy, who had a career-high nine strikeouts in Sunday’s win over the Demon Deacons to bring Mike Neu and California into the win column in conference play.

Scoreless for five innings of play, California jumped ahead in the top of the 6^th with breakout Freshman shortstop Jett Kenady getting into scoring position with a lead-off double and scoring on an RBI-single from Daniel Murillo to put Cal ahead 1-0. With Eddy retiring the side in the bottom half of the 6^th, Cal’s offense returned to the plate in the 7^th, swinging, leading off the inning with a Tyler LeRoy home run to right field, and Jett Kenady following later in the inning with a two-run home run to give the Bears a four-run lead. Olmstead then went back-to-back with Kenady for his second home run of the series, thus giving Cal their 5^th and final run of the series and game with a lead that only a weather delay could destroy.

After surrendering three consecutive singles and an RBI in the bottom of the 7^th, Eddy’s day was over, and Larson came in to strike out the Deacons with runners in scoring position and hold Wake Forest to a 5-1 deficit. Larson then gave up a two-run home run to Matt Conte in the 8^th to make it a two-run ball game, but Ryan Spalliero was able to work out of the 8^th inning jam before creating his own in the 9^th that Cole Clark got Cal out of with a double-play to end the game and end the losing streak by giving Cal their first ACC win of the 2026 season. Game 3: California. WP: Gavin Eddy (6.1 IP, 8 H, ER, 9 K) LP: Troy Dressler (5.1 IP, 3 H, 1 ER, 3 BB, 8 K).

California returns home on Tuesday night for a $2 Tuesday East Bay showdown against Saint Mary’s in Berkeley before their weekend series against former Cal Bear Jarren Advincula and Georgia Tech. Gametime against the Gaels is at 6:05 PM and will be streamed on ACCNX/ESPN+.

We’re doing a quick lookback on the first week of spring practice. Here was the introduction from Cal head coach Tosh Lupoi.

Lupoi opened his first spring practice as California Golden Bears head coach with a clear emphasis on physicality, structure and culture, marking a shift from offseason conditioning into full-contact competition.

After an eight-week buildup, Lupoi framed spring as the next critical phase in installing his program.

“We’ve just completed what we refer to as phase one,” Lupoi said. “Now we get to let it rip here at a different speed.”

That next step includes a return to full pads and a deliberate focus on toughness.

“We need to establish ourselves as a physical group. You’ve got to practice that to earn the right to perform that way.”

Lupoi said most spring practices will feature full contact, with the goal of translating offseason fundamentals into game-like conditions.

“We’ve been able to practice technique without pads. Now it’s applying that in a true football setting.”

The Bears are expected to install the majority of their playbook by the end of spring, following a structured, NFL-style progression Lupoi has carried over to the college level. Situational work will be a priority to eliminate surprises in the fall.

“There’s a science to exactly what we do. In spring ball, there’ll be approximately ten installations on both offense and defense. The goal is to put our players in as many situations as possible so it’s never new come game day.”

While scheme is a focus, Lupoi repeatedly emphasized team chemistry and internal connection as foundational pieces of the program.

“We’re trying to build that chemistry — what we refer to as the power of unit. Competing and preparing for something much bigger than yourself. The honeymoon is a little bit over now. Now we’re in true, physical combat. We’ll find out who our real football players are.”

Staff construction has also been central to Lupoi’s transition. He hired first-time coordinators Michael Hutchings and Jordan Somerville, both of whom bring NFL experience despite limited playcalling backgrounds.

“Those were the guys that were top of the list. It’s the faith and belief in what those guys are capable of.”

Both coordinators will handle play-calling duties, part of what Lupoi described as a broader NFL-influenced approach across the staff. That influence extends beyond coaching hires. Lupoi has made a point to reconnect the program with its alumni base, regularly bringing former players back around the team.

“There wouldn’t be a single week that goes by where we didn’t have somebody of great magnitude back.”

Among those visiting have been Marshawn Lynch, Cameron Jordan and Jared Goff, along with other former players and professionals across industries.

“It’s not going to be something we put up on the wall. It’s going to be our actions that represent our culture.”

As the program adapts to the modern college landscape, Lupoi also addressed NIL opportunities, expressing support while maintaining a team-first mindset.

“We support those opportunities. But more so up here, it’s all about the team.”

With spring just beginning, Lupoi said player evaluation is ongoing and will accelerate once practices are underway. As the Bears take the field, Lupoi made clear that spring will be less about projection and more about proof.

“There’s some obviously talented individuals,” he said. “But now it’s directing and channeling that — seeing how they adapt to the system and how we adapt to them.”

“This is where we find out a lot about each other.”

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