Matt Bradley, a former Cal star who once topped the Golden Bears’ scoring charts in the 2019‑20 and 2020‑21 campaigns, has been elevated to director of player development for the 2026‑27 season.
A New Chapter for the Bears
Bradley’s collegiate résumé reads like a highlight reel. At Cal he posted averages of 10.8 points as a freshman, 17.5 as a sophomore and 18.0 as a junior, culminating in second‑team all‑Pac‑12 honors in both his sophomore and junior years. He then transferred to San Diego State, where he again earned all‑Mountain West first‑team accolades in each of his two seasons and guided the Aztecs to the NCAA championship game in 2023.
After completing his playing eligibility, Bradley returned to Berkeley as a graduate assistant, immersing himself in the day‑to‑day operations of the program. His recent promotion reflects the university’s confidence in his ability to bridge the gap between on‑court performance and player development.
The Bears capped the 2025‑26 season with a 22‑12 record and a second‑round showing in the National Invitation Tournament. That run was built around a core that will now see four starters depart, prompting the front office to bring in a general manager. In May, Cal tapped former standout Richard Midgley for that role, signaling a coordinated effort to sustain momentum.
With a blend of returning veterans and promising transfers, the program aims to translate Bradley’s playing insight and Midgley’s administrative experience into continued competitiveness. The front office believes the new leadership structure will help the Bears navigate the rigors of a demanding schedule while nurturing the next wave of talent.