UC Davis secured a 74-66 win over UC Riverside at the University Credit Union Center, fueled by a well-rounded performance from Nils Cooper. The Aggies' guard tallied 19 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists, leading his team to a decisive 8-point victory. With this win, UC Davis improves to 12-8 on the season, while UC Riverside falls to 7-14.
The Aggies dominated the first half, taking a 36-25 lead into the break. UC Riverside struggled to find their rhythm, shooting just 32% from the field in the opening period. However, the Highlanders regrouped in the second half, outscoring UC Davis 41-38 behind a strong effort from Marqui Worthy Jr. The UC Riverside forward finished with 18 points and 8 rebounds, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Aggies' early advantage.
UC Davis received significant contributions from its supporting cast, as Isaiah Chappell and Connor Sevilla each chipped in 14 points. The Aggies' balanced attack and stout defense allowed them to maintain a comfortable lead throughout the contest. Despite a late push from UC Riverside, UC Davis held firm, securing the 8-point win.
CHD Scout Report Card
CORRECTPredicted
Final
The outcome was largely in line with pre-game expectations, as CHD Scout predicted a 9.6-point victory for UC Davis. The actual margin of 8 points was close to the projected spread, validating the scouting report. UC Davis's performance was a reflection of their preparation and execution, as they controlled the tempo and limited UC Riverside's scoring opportunities.
This matchup had implications for both teams' tournament resumes. For UC Davis, the win represents a Quadrant 4 victory, which may not significantly boost their profile but helps to maintain their current standing. With a net ranking of 178, the Aggies still have work to do to bolster their postseason chances. On the other hand, UC Riverside's loss is classified as a Quadrant 3 defeat, which won't severely harm their resume but won't provide much of a lift either. The Highlanders' net ranking of 279 leaves them with a steep climb to become a viable tournament contender.
As the season progresses, UC Davis want to build on this win and continue to strengthen their tournament resume. With Nils Cooper leading the charge, the Aggies have the potential to make a push in their conference and potentially secure a postseason berth. For now, they can celebrate a hard-fought victory over a regional opponent, one that demonstrates their growth and resilience as a team. The win may not have been a statement victory, but it's a step in the right direction for UC Davis as they navigate the complexities of their schedule and strive to leave a lasting impression on the selection committee.