UC Davis hosts CSU Bakersfield after Coleman's 23-point game

Roadrunners vs. Aggies: A Glimpse into the Evolving Landscape of College Basketball Analytics

Jan. 31, 2026 at 3:15am

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The upcoming matchup between the CSU Bakersfield Roadrunners and the UC Davis Aggies isn't just another game on the Big West schedule. It's a microcosm of how data analytics is reshaping college basketball, influencing everything from player development to game strategy.

Why it matters

This game highlights the growing trend of mid-major conferences prioritizing defensive efficiency and three-point shooting as pathways to success, showcasing the increasing role of advanced metrics and data-driven player development in college basketball.

The details

CSU Bakersfield's defensive focus - allowing just 67.4 points per game and holding opponents to 42.7% shooting - exemplifies the mid-major trend of leveraging data to identify opponent weaknesses and optimize defensive schemes. UC Davis, on the other hand, showcases the offensive side of this equation, consistently knocking down 8.7 three-pointers per game, significantly more than what Bakersfield typically concedes (5.7). Beyond points per game, coaches are now heavily reliant on advanced metrics like offensive and defensive rating, offensive rebounding, and steals to gain a more accurate picture of team and player performance.

  • The upcoming matchup between the CSU Bakersfield Roadrunners and the UC Davis Aggies is scheduled for 2026-01-31.

The players

Chrishawn Coleman

A player for the CSU Bakersfield Roadrunners who recently had a 23-point game.

Ryann Bennett

A player for the UC Davis Aggies known for his all-around performance.

Megan Norris

A player for the UC Davis Aggies who averages 2.1 offensive rebounds per game, a crucial indicator of second-chance points and overall possession control.

Morgan Hawkins

A player for the UC Davis Aggies who averages 1.8 steals per game, demonstrating a disruptive defensive presence.

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What’s next

The upcoming matchup between the CSU Bakersfield Roadrunners and the UC Davis Aggies is scheduled for 2026-01-31.

The takeaway

This game highlights the growing importance of data analytics in college basketball, with teams increasingly prioritizing defensive efficiency, three-point shooting, and advanced metrics to gain a competitive edge. The use of technology, such as wearable devices and AI-powered predictive analytics, is poised to further revolutionize the sport in the years to come.