The California Golden Bears had relied on their defense to stop most of the teams they've faced. But they ran into a buzzsaw when they faced a desperate Oregon St. Beavers team, and Oregon State lit them up.
Oregon State and Cal were tied 38-38 going into the second half, only to see the Beavers explode for 54 second half points. Oregon State shot an incredible 63% from the field, 19 of 25 from the line, and 61% from behind the arc. The Beavers were led by Jared Cunningham with 24 points, who got to the free throw line at will (10 of 12) and shot six of eight from the field. Ahmad Starks added another 24 points, including five three pointers and shooting 8 of 14 from the field. Angus Brandt went five of eight for 14 points, Joe Burton five of seven for another 13.
Jorge Gutierrez led the Bears with 26 points on 10 of 19 shooting, Justin Cobbs had 18 points on eight of 12 shooting, Allen Crabbe had 16 points on five of 11 shooting, and David Kravish added ten. But it wasn't Cal's offense that was the problem Thursday night; it was the defense that fell apart.
To discuss Cal basketball, head to the California Golden Blogs. To talk Oregon State basketball, go to Building the Dam.