Pac-12 Basketball: What would a conference challenge look like?

Stanford Cardinals vs Cal State Bakersfield Roadrunners

Although this game may not get fans the most excited, there could be long-term consequences for the winner and loser of this game. Cal State Bakersfield has been one of the better teams from the WAC but, because of the bad numbers, they must win the conference tournament to get in. A neutral game win versus a likely top 100 foe in Stanford will only help a potential at-large resume.

Led by Damiyne Durham, the Roadrunners plays tough defense and get just enough scoring to win tight games. As the WAC representative, this is a major opportunity on a bigger stage to make a national name for themselves.

Jared Hasse isn’t on the bubble yet in his second year but that doesn’t mean the expectations won’t be there this year. After a somewhat disappointing effort despite having Reid Travis, this season will be more scrutinized. Although a loss to the Roadrunners isn’t shameful, it doesn’t help an at-large bid.

Alongside Reid, junior Robert Cartwright and freshman Daejon Davis will hope to form a solid enough backcourt to bring the necessary balance for the Cardinals to succeed.

Cal State Bakersfield has the athletes to compete with power conference teams and should make this a competitive tight game in the second half. Realistically though they don’t have an answer for Travis, who could have a big game.

Prediction: Stanford