UC Riverside vs Cal Poly-San Luis Obispo Picks and Prediction – 2/22/2025

UC Riverside enters this matchup at 18-10 overall and 11-5 in Big West play, coming off an 81-69 win over UC Santa Barbara. Before that, the Highlanders had split the last four games, including a dominant 80-62 victory over Cal Poly earlier this month. Cal Poly, sitting at 10-17 and 4-11 in the conference, has lost two straight, most recently falling 89-85 to CSUN. The Mustangs are looking to bounce back at home but face a tough challenge against a stronger Highlanders squad. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

UC Riverside has been steady, averaging 73.5 points per game while allowing 72.4. The offense is powered by Barrington Hargress, who leads the team with 19.8 points and 4.0 assists per game. His ability to score and distribute the ball makes him the focal point. 

Joel Armotrading anchors the interior, leading the team with 6.8 rebounds and 1.1 blocks. The Highlanders shoot 42.4% from the field and average 37.6 rebounds per game, giving them a slight edge in rebounding over Cal Poly.

Cal Poly has struggled defensively, allowing 83.3 points per game, the worst mark in the Big West. The offense, however, has been solid, averaging 79.4 points while shooting 45.2% from the field. Owen Koonce leads the way with 17.1 points and 5.1 rebounds per game, while Jarred Hyder runs the offense with 3.3 assists per game. 

The Mustangs create turnovers, averaging 7.5 steals, but lack a defensive presence inside, blocking just 2.1 shots per game. If they can improve defensively, they could keep this game competitive.

UC Riverside has already handled Cal Poly once this season, and with a more efficient defense and stronger rebounding, they should control the pace again. Cal Poly’s struggles on defense will be the difference, as the Highlanders capitalize on second-chance opportunities. Expect another comfortable win for UC Riverside. Final Score Prediction: UC Riverside wins and covers 78-70.