Preview: Cal State Northridge Matadors at Stanford Cardinal

PALO ALTO, Calif. (Interstat) — A surging Stanford team riding a five-game winning streak will look to maintain its momentum when it hosts a hot-shooting Cal State Northridge squad on Saturday at Maples Pavilion.

The Cardinal (10-2) enter as heavy favorites, installed with a -15.5 point spread, following an impressive 77-68 road victory at Colorado on Dec. 20. Stanford’s success has been fueled by the explosive scoring of guard Ebuka Okorie, who dropped a season-high 32 points in that win. Over his last three games, Okorie is averaging 20 points.

They face a Matadors team (8-5) that has won four straight, including a 100-88 offensive showcase against Sacramento State on Monday. Cal State Northridge has averaged 91.3 points per game during its win streak.

The matchup features a compelling duel at guard between Stanford’s Okorie and CSUN’s dynamic playmaker Josiah Davis. Davis is coming off a 22-point, 10-assist double-double against Sacramento State and has recorded at least eight assists in four of his last five contests, directing the Matadors’ high-tempo attack.

Stanford’s defense, which has held opponents to an average of 68.8 points, will be tested by a CSUN offense that has topped 88 points in six games this season. The Matadors’ recent wins, however, have come against a softer schedule, making this their most significant non-conference road test.

For the Cardinal, this game serves as a final tune-up before opening a daunting Atlantic Coast Conference slate next week against Notre Dame and Louisville. Cal State Northridge begins Big West Conference play on Jan. 1 at UC Davis.

The over/under for total points is set at 163.5, suggesting expectations for a fast-paced contest between Stanford’s efficient offense and CSUN’s prolific scoring streak.

Tip-off is set for Saturday, Dec. 27, at Maples Pavilion.