Cal Women Charge to Huge Lead, Breeze by Pitt

The Bears jumped out to a 25-point lead in the first half and cruised to a 95-80 victory at Pitt.

Feb. 8, 2026 at 3:07pm

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The Cal women's basketball team dominated Pitt in the first half, building a 25-point lead and going on to win 95-80. Cal shot 73.1% in the first half, including 9-of-13 from 3-point range, to take a 54-32 halftime lead. Pitt made a late push but could not overcome the large deficit. Cal guard Lulu Twidale scored 32 points, while Gisella Maul added a career-high 20 points and 11 rebounds.

Why it matters

The win extends Cal's recent hot streak, as they have now won 5 of their last 6 games. However, the victory likely won't have a major impact on their NCAA tournament hopes, as Pitt is one of the worst teams in the ACC. Cal will need to continue their strong play as they face tougher opponents down the stretch.

The details

Cal jumped out to a 51-26 lead in the first 17 minutes, making 19-of-26 shots (73.1%) including 9-of-13 (69.2%) from 3-point range. Pitt was able to cut the deficit to 11 points in the fourth quarter but could not complete the comeback. Lulu Twidale led Cal with 32 points, while Gisella Maul had a career-high 20 points and 11 rebounds. Sakima Walker scored 18 points and Mjracle Sheppard added 14 points and 8 assists for the Bears.

  • Cal jumped out to a 25-point lead in the first half.
  • Pitt cut the deficit to 11 points midway through the fourth quarter.

The players

Lulu Twidale

A junior guard from Australia who scored 32 points for Cal, including 7-of-11 from 3-point range.

Gisella Maul

A Cal player who scored a career-high 20 points and grabbed 11 rebounds.

Sakima Walker

Cal's center who scored 18 points, grabbed 6 rebounds, and had 2 blocked shots.

Mjracle Sheppard

A Cal guard who scored 14 points and dished out 8 assists.

Theresa Hagans

A Pitt player who scored 19 points in the loss.

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The takeaway

While the win extends Cal's recent hot streak, the victory over one of the worst teams in the ACC likely won't have a major impact on their NCAA tournament hopes. The Bears will need to continue their strong play as they face tougher opponents down the stretch.