Bears Host Flames in NIT: Experts Predict Comfortable Win

0:00On March 18th, tonight, the California Golden Bears host the University of Illinois at Chicago Flames in the opening round of the National Invitation. Tournament at Hoss Pavilion in Berkeley, California. Tip-off is set for 11 p.m. Eastern time on ESPN 2, making it a late-night match-up on Wednesday, March 18th. The Bears bring superior talent and physicality to both ends of the court. They excel at shooting from beyond the arc, protect the ball well, and hold a clear edge in the front court with their size. Meanwhile, the Flames have struggled against stronger teams this season, posting a 4-7 record versus top-tier opponents. They shoot poorly from three-point range and lack height, with no key players over six feet eight inches. Experts predict the tough night for UIC's offense, as California's defense ranks among the nation's best at limiting threes and overall efficiency. The Bears have dominated similar matchups lately, going 6-1 against lower competition. This should be a comfortable win for Cal, setting them up nicely in the tournament while

1:03exposing the Flames' limitations against power conference. Calibre Play.