Cal State Northridge vs Hawaii Picks and Prediction – 1/17/2025

The Cal State Northridge (CSUN) Matadors are set to face the Hawai'i Rainbow Warriors on January 16, 2025, at the SimpliFi Arena at Stan Sheriff Center in Honolulu, Hawai'i. This matchup marks an important Big West Conference clash as both teams aim to climb the league ranks. Get in on the action with our free NCAAB picks.

CSUN enters with an 11-6 overall record and a 3-3 mark in Big West play. The Matadors are on a two-game losing streak, with recent setbacks against UC Irvine (77-67) and Cal State Bakersfield (94-90). In their loss to UC Irvine, CSUN made a late rally to cut a 21-point deficit to five but ultimately fell short. Scotty Washington was a standout performer, leading the team with 19 points.

Hawai'i comes into the game with an 11-5 overall record and a 3-2 record in conference play. The Rainbow Warriors are riding a three-game winning streak, including dominant home victories over UC Riverside and Cal State Fullerton, where they held both teams under 50 points. Hawai'i leads the Big West in scoring defense, allowing just 55.2 points per game, a mark that ranks 21st nationally. Lily Wahinekapu has been a key contributor, averaging 10.7 points and three assists per game, and her steady presence on both ends of the court has been vital for Hawai'i's success. The Rainbow Warriors will look to Gytis Nemeiksa on the offensive end. Gytis averages 14.6 points and 7.2 rebounds per game.

Historically, Hawai'i leads the all-time series with a 22-9 record, including an 11-3 advantage at home. The Rainbow Warriors have won the last two meetings between the teams and will aim to extend their streak against the Matadors. Hawaii has been mowing down these California teams as of late, and we think they roll again here. Prediction: Hawaii wins 69-61.