Pittsburgh Basketball has won three straight games heading into both the New Year and the start of full-time ACC play. They take on new conference peer California (7-5, 0-1), who have had their fair share of ups and downs in the non-con.
The Panthers may be a favorite in the ACC, but for resume purposes, they have to avoid losing games like this to be nowhere near the bubble. Here are the keys to the matchup for the Panthers.
1. Slow down Andrej Stojakovic
The star of the Bears is clearly Stojakovic, who leads the team with 19.1 ppg on 44% shooting and 36% from deep. He’s had 15+ points in 10 of 12 games, including 31 versus Northwestern State. But he can also have inefficient outings as well. Cal could play three-guard lineups and have Stojakovic play at the four-spot. Zack Austin would be the ideal defender to take the 6’7 forward, but whoever gets the assignment is the one Pitt needs to focus on most.
2. Let it fly from deep
Cal’s defense is not overly strong, allowing 46% shooting from deep and 37% from beyond the arc, which is good for 331st in the country. Pitt’s shooting has been inconsistent from deep at times, but they’ve been better lately, making 35% from deep. The Bears also don’t force turnovers or create much pressure so look for Jaland Lowe and Ish Leggett to have free reign for both themselves and others to get plenty of shots off.
3. Big game from Guillermo Diaz-Graham
The junior forward has been the topic of discussion in the non-con for his offensive struggles, shooting 39% from the field and just 22% from deep as a big man. With Damian Dunn set to come back next week and Austin playing his best ball, GDG could be the guy whose minutes get cut for the rest of the season.
The matchup with Cal will have him in the spotlight. Assuming 6’8 forward BJ Omot remains out with an injury, they’ll have a 6’7 wing guarding him at the four-spot. He can get his shots off all game, but he will have to play good defense. Otherwise, Pitt may be better off with its own three-guard lineup and Austin at the four this and future games.