UC Davis will step up to the level of the WCC and fly up north to face the University of Portland. Cal fans will recognize the name of Shantay Legans the fifth year coach of the Pilots. As is increasingly common in college basketball these days, he has had to replace his entire starting lineup. His best find looks to be Cameron Williams a community college transfer who can score. At 6’ 8” and 220 lbs., he’s a load off the glass too. Teaming with James O’Donnell (6’ 10” 230 lbs.), a transfer from USF, and Matus Hronsky (6’ 8”, 205 lbs.), a transfer from Duquesne, they make Portland a real challenge around the basket. Another key player is shooting guard Mikah Ballew who was on the team last year but came off the bench. Rounding out these key six players are frosh point guard Joel Foxwell and Williams’ community college teammate Garrett Nichols. These guys lit up a lot of points as Division 3 Willamette found out in the season opener as UP put in 120 points. Against Arkansas Pine Bluff (one of the weaker teams in one of the weakest leagues) on Thursday, it was a lot closer, 83-74 as the Pilots only made 22% from 3 point land.

UC Davis will be the toughest team that Portland has played in the young season, so they might be challenged. ESPN, however, gives the Aggies a 57% chance of winning. This game will be a real challenge for the young Aggies, as well, and will be broadcast on ESPN+.