Amber Aniston • December 6, 2024

Golden Bears Hand Alabama First Loss of the Season, 69-65

The California Golden Bears delivered a statement victory on Thursday night, defeating No. 19 Alabama 69-65 in a thrilling ACC/SEC Challenge matchup at Haas Pavilion. This win improved Cal's record to 8-1 and handed Alabama (9-1) its first loss of the season. Kayla Williams led the Bears with 21 points, while Ionna Krimili sealed the game with clutch free throws in the final seconds. 


The game featured seven lead changes and intense back-and-forth action, showcasing both teams' resilience. For Cal, the victory marked their fourth win over a 2024 NCAA Tournament team and their highest-ranked win since defeating No. 13 Arizona in 2020. 


Early Momentum Swings 

Alabama started strong, capitalizing on a 15-2 second-quarter run led by Zaay Green and Essence Cody. The Crimson Tide built a 32-25 lead at halftime, with Green and Cody combining for 26 of Alabama’s 32 first-half points. Alabama dominated in the paint early, outscoring Cal 42-28 in that area by the game’s end. 


Cal responded with a defensive adjustment in the second half, limiting Alabama’s interior opportunities and forcing contested shots. Marta Suarez and Ionna Krimili spearheaded the Bears’ comeback, combining for 16 points in the third quarter. Suarez's three-pointer midway through the third gave Cal their first lead since the opening quarter, and Williams followed with seven consecutive points to extend their advantage. 


Clutch Fourth-Quarter Performance 

The fourth quarter showcased the poise and determination of both teams. Alabama regained the lead early in the period with back-to-back three-pointers from Green and Karly Weathers. However, Cal answered with a decisive 15-9 run over the final seven minutes. Jayda Noble’s critical block with 1:32 remaining preserved Cal’s four-point lead, while Krimili hit three crucial free throws in the closing moments to seal the victory. 


Despite missing three consecutive free throws late in the game, Krimili maintained her composure to ice the game with six seconds left. Her 19-point performance, combined with Suarez’s 16 points and six assists, highlighted the balanced attack that lifted Cal to victory. 


Alabama’s Struggles in Key Moments 

Alabama showcased their strengths with a dominant performance in the paint and a strong rebounding effort, out-rebounding Cal 38-36. Green delivered a season-high 28 points, marking her ninth double-digit game of the season, while Cody added 13 points and nine rebounds. 


However, the Crimson Tide struggled with free throws, shooting just 50% (9-of-18) from the line. Missed opportunities in the second half and key defensive lapses allowed Cal to capitalize in critical moments. Head coach Kristy Curry emphasized the need for improvement in postgame comments, noting the team's missed free throws and inability to get crucial stops down the stretch. 


Statistical Highlights 

Cal shot 44% from the field, including nine three-pointers at a 33% clip. Williams led the team in scoring while Ugonne Onyiah grabbed a team-high nine rebounds. Alabama shot 41% overall but managed just 24% from beyond the arc. The game’s intensity was reflected in the seven lead changes and multiple scoring runs, keeping fans on edge until the final buzzer. 


Looking Ahead 

California will look to maintain their momentum as they face Pacific in Stockton on Saturday. With their best start under head coach Charmin Smith, the Bears appear poised to make a strong case for a return to the NCAA Tournament. The win over Alabama adds another quality victory to their résumé, positioning them as a team to watch in the Pac-12. 


Alabama, meanwhile, will have a long break before hosting Murray State on December 15. The Crimson Tide will aim to regroup and address their inconsistencies before diving deeper into their SEC schedule. Despite the loss, Alabama’s strong start to the season highlights their potential for success in conference play. 


A Defining Win for Cal 

Cal’s victory over Alabama demonstrated their ability to compete with and defeat ranked opponents, a milestone for a program seeking to re-establish itself among the nation’s elite. With standout performances from Williams, Krimili, and Suarez, the Golden Bears showcased their depth and determination. As they move forward, this win serves as a confidence booster and a sign of their growing potential this season. 

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