After a year‑long absence, the California Golden Bears women's basketball team is poised to make its comeback in the NCAA tournament for the 2025‑26 season. A strong returning core, featuring four of last season's starters, gives the program a fresh sense of optimism as it prepares for a rigorous non‑conference slate.
A Competitive Non‑Conference Schedule
The Bears will play 13 games outside their conference, including six on the road, and will face three teams that earned NCAA tournament bids a year ago. The lineup opens with a home clash against Washington State on November 2 at Haas Pavilion, travels to Charleston on November 12, and heads to Hawaii to meet Gonzaga on November 23.
Washington State arrives with a 9‑25 record from the 2025‑26 campaign, making the early matchup a chance for Cal to assert dominance. A week later, Charleston, the 27‑6 powerhouse coached by Amanda Butler, will visit Berkeley, promising a high‑scoring test. Both games are part of a broader strategy to build momentum before conference play.
Showcase in Hawaii
The Hawaii segment of the schedule adds a unique flavor. After a preliminary game against Hawaii on November 20, Cal will meet Gonzaga in Laie on November 23 at the George Q. Cannon Activities Center. Gonzaga, a program that has reached the NCAA tournament 16 times since 2007 and is transitioning to the Pac‑12, brings a storied pedigree that will test the Bears' mettle.
Nebraska joins the mix for the Invisalign Bay Area Women's Classic on December 20 at Chase Center in San Francisco. The Cornhuskers, who have appeared in the NCAA tournament the past three seasons and return three of their top scorers, will provide a physical challenge in a venue that promises a lively crowd.
Additional contests include a home game against Texas A&M on December 3 as part of the SEC/ACC Challenge, and a yet‑to‑be‑announced Raising The B.A.R. Invitational slated for November 27‑28. These games round out a schedule that blends regional rivalries with high‑profile national programs.
Looking Ahead
The upcoming season represents more than just a return to March Madness; it is a statement of intent from a program eager to re‑establish itself among the nation's elite. With a blend of home‑court advantage, travel challenges, and marquee opponents, the Golden Bears hope to translate early‑season tests into confidence as they chase deeper tournament runs.