The San Diego Aztecs (8-2) had to live with the pain of blowing a 17-point lead and eventually losing against Creighton just four days earlier, but made sure to close the deal at home on Sunday against the No. 24 California Golden Bears (6-2). The 64-63 victory for the Aztecs was their second win in as many years over Cal, as they also dropped the Golden Bears 77-57 last season in Berkeley.
California Vs. San Diego State Final Score: Aztecs Edge No. 24 Golden Bears
The San Diego State Aztecs pulled off an impressive 64-63 upset over the No. 24-ranked California Golden Bears on Sunday afternoon.
Junior guard Chase Tapley led the Aztec attack with 25 points and five assists, including two huge free throws to seal the victory with 8.6 seconds remaining in the game. Meanwhile, Cal leaned on guards Allen Crabbe (23 points on 9-21 shooting) and Justin Cobbs (17 points on 6-14 shooting), but it wasn't enough in the end. The Golden Bears only held one lead the entire second half, 51-50, but it was short-lived as Tapley intercepted an alley oop during a breakaway on Cal's next possession and drove down the court for a layup to put the Aztecs back in the lead.
Here is the reaction from SB Nation’s California Golden Bears blog, California Golden Blogs:
It was an admirable effort from the short-handed Bears. Unfortunately, this game also emphasized many of our weaknesses; difficulties handling athletic guards, and a significant drop-off from starters to reserves. Although Kravish and Cobbs stepped up as expected, it was our bench which allowed San Diego State to close the 1st half with a 8-0 run. Playing from behind took its toll and proved to be the difference in the game. It’s going to be a tightrope act all year as Monty balances developing his bench with winning games. If he’s going to keep such a short rotation, our starters are going to have to be really careful to avoid cheap fouls.
To discuss the finer points of Cal basketball, go to the California Golden Blogs.
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