UNC Dominates Cal 79-53, Extends Winning Streak to Four Games

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — North Carolina clamped down on California‘s top scorer and extended its winning streak to four games with a commanding 79-53 victory in an Atlantic Coast Conference matchup Wednesday night at the Smith Center.

The Tar Heels (12-6 overall, 5-1 ACC) secured their sixth win in the last seven games, led by Ian Jackson‘s 20 points and seven rebounds. Elliot Cadeau added 15 points, while Seth Trimble contributed 12 points and six rebounds off the bench. UNC’s defense was particularly effective against Cal’s Andrej Stojakovic, who entered the game averaging 24.2 points per game in conference play but was held to a season-low six points on 3-of-13 shooting.

“We knew we had to contain Stojakovic, and the guys did a great job of making every shot difficult for him,” said UNC head coach Hubert Davis. “Drake Powell and Seth Trimble really stepped up defensively.”

UNC’s dominance was evident early, as they led 39-29 at halftime despite a slow start from leading scorer RJ Davis, who finished with just seven points. Cadeau’s 11 first-half points, including a series of smooth floaters and driving layups, helped the Tar Heels build their lead. The team shot 61.5% from the field in the first half, while holding Stojakovic to 1-of-8 shooting before the break.

Cal (8-9, 1-5 ACC) struggled to keep pace, with Mady Sissoko‘s 16 points and eight rebounds providing the only consistent offense. The Golden Bears managed just two fast-break points and shot 3-for-25 from beyond the arc, unable to generate enough scoring to challenge UNC.

UNC’s depth also played a key role, with contributions from Jalen Washington, who added seven points, and Cade Tyson, who provided energy off the bench. The Tar Heels’ big men combined for 17 points and 15 rebounds, helping secure the win.

The victory improved UNC’s all-time record against Cal to 5-1, with the series featuring notable matchups, including a 1997 NCAA Tournament game involving Vince Carter, Antawn Jamison, and Tony Gonzalez. The Tar Heels will look to continue their momentum Saturday when they host Stanford at the Smith Center.