The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) has unveiled the men’s basketball opponents for the 2025–26 season, marking the second year of California’s integration into the conference. This announcement outlines the Golden Bears’ matchups, highlighting both traditional rivalries and new challenges.
In the 2025–26 season, Cal will face the following teams both at home and on the road:
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Stanford: Continuing their historic rivalry, the Bears will play the Cardinal twice.
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SMU: As part of the ACC’s expansion, SMU remains a consistent opponent.Duke Basketball Report
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NC State: The Wolfpack will be a repeat opponent, providing a balanced competition.
Cal will host the following teams at Haas Pavilion:California Golden Bears Athletics+2California Golden Bears Athletics+2SI+2
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Boston College
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Florida State
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Miami
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Syracuse
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Virginia
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Virginia Tech
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Wake Forest
These games offer the Bears opportunities to capitalize on home-court advantage against a diverse set of opponents.
The Bears will travel to face these teams:
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Clemson
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Duke
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Georgia Tech
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Louisville
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North Carolina
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Notre Dame
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Pittsburgh
Notably, visits to storied programs like Duke and North Carolina present both challenges and high-profile exposure for Cal.SI+2Rivals+2SI+2
With the ACC’s expansion to include West Coast teams like Cal and Stanford, travel logistics have become a significant factor. The conference aims to mitigate travel strain by scheduling road games in clusters, allowing teams to play multiple games per trip. This approach is designed to reduce fatigue and maintain competitive performance throughout the season.Duke Basketball Report+1Rivals+1
The 2025–26 season promises to be a pivotal one for Cal as they continue to establish their presence in the ACC. Balancing traditional rivalries with new conference dynamics, the Bears have a schedule that tests their resilience and adaptability. Fans can anticipate a season filled with compelling matchups and the continued growth of Cal’s basketball program on the national stage.
