California Golden Bears vs Virginia Cavaliers Picks, Prediction, Odds, and Line Movement for Wednesday January 7 2026
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On Wednesday, the California Golden Bears (13-2) face off against the Virginia Cavaliers (12-2) at John Paul Jones Arena in Charlottesville, Virginia. This game will air on the ACC Network. Keep up to date with all the NCAAB action, with our College Basketball predictions.
California vs. Virginia Game Information
- January 7, 2026
- 9:00pm EST
- John Paul Jones Arena
- ACC Network
Virginia Form & Recent Results
Virginia heads into this matchup riding the momentum of a one-game winning streak and some strong recent form, having come out on top in four of their last five games. In their most recent victory, a convincing 76-61 win over NC State, Sam Lewis led the way for the Cavaliers with an impressive 23 points. So far this season, Thijs De Ridder has been Virginia’s most consistent scorer, putting up an average of 16.4 points per game. Right behind him is Malik Thomas, who has also played a key role on offense, averaging 12.3 points. When it comes to controlling the glass, Johann Grunloh has been Virginia’s top rebounder, pulling down an average of 6.9 boards per game. Dallin Hall, meanwhile, serves as the team’s main facilitator, leading the Cavaliers in assists with 4.1 per game. Offensively, Virginia has been firing on all cylinders lately, averaging 84 points over their last five games. They'll be looking to keep that hot streak going as they try to pick up a big conference win against California in front of their home crowd.
California Form & Recent Results
California heads into this game riding the momentum of a one-game winning streak, having notched victories in four of their last five games. Most recently, the Golden Bears edged out Notre Dame in a nail-biter, winning 72-71 thanks in large part to Dai Dai Ames, who poured in 23 points. Throughout this season, Ames has been California’s go-to scorer, averaging an impressive 17.6 points per game. Right behind him are Chris Bell and Justin Pippen, who are both contributing solidly with 14.8 points each on average, giving the team a reliable trio on offense. Lee Dort has been the Golden Bears’ anchor, pulling down an average of 7.9 rebounds per game. When it comes to sharing the basketball, Justin Pippen stands out, dishing out 4.2 assists a game to set the pace for California’s offense. Over their last five games, California has been putting up an average of 78.4 points, showing they have the firepower to keep up with tough opponents. Now, they'll be aiming to carry their hot streak into Charlottesville and pick up a crucial conference victory on the road.
Key Players
- California’s Justin Pippen this season: 14.8 points, 4.2 assists per game
- Virginia’s Thijs De Ridder this season: 16.4 points per game
Betting Odds & Market Overview:
- UVA -12.5; O/U 147.5
California vs. Virginia Picks and Prediction
Both California and Virginia enter their matchup in Charlottesville on Wednesday with identical records in ACC play, with each having won one and lost one so far this season. The Cavaliers will be counting on their home fans to give them an advantage, hoping to gain some momentum in their season. Meanwhile, the Golden Bears come into the game riding the high of a thrilling, one-point victory over Notre Dame in their previous matchup. Final Score Prediction, Virginia Cavaliers win, but fail to cover the spread, 79-71.
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