BERKELEY, Calif. — In an impressive display on Wednesday night, freshman Jeremiah Wilkinson set new season records with 25 points and six three-pointers, leading California to an emphatic 81-55 triumph over Mercyhurst in the concluding game of the Cal Classic.

Wilkinson, who comes off the bench as a guard, showcased his shooting efficiency by making 9 of 12 attempts from the floor, including 6 of 8 from beyond the arc. His prior career highs were 23 points and two three-pointers, both achieved in a match against Air Force. In addition, he achieved personal bests with four assists and two steals in this game against Mercyhurst.

Andreja Stojakovic contributed significantly with 15 points, while Joshua Ola-Joseph added 13 points for Cal (6-1). The Golden Bears expanded their 18-point halftime advantage to 58-35, thanks in part to a three-pointer from Stojakovic and two from Wilkinson. A dominant 10-0 run started near the 10-minute mark further widened the gap, putting Cal ahead by 30 points, as the Lakers struggled, going four minutes without making a field goal.

Devin Curtis delivered a standout moment for the Bears with a four-point play, bringing the score to its peak at 81-48 with just 2:50 left in the game. For Mercyhurst, Bernie Blunt managed to score 11 points, while Aidan Reichert contributed 10 points.

The Golden Bears had a sluggish start, only scoring two points in the first 4.5 minutes. However, they heated up to finish the first half, shooting 65% from the field for the remainder of the period. A strong closing surge saw them end the half at 41-23, with Wilkinson leading the charge with 12 points, including 3 of 4 from three-point range.

The Cal Classic was a multi-team tournament that began on November 21, with Cal achieving previous victories against Air Force and Sacramento State earlier in the series. This early success positions the Bears at their best season start since the 2016-17 campaign.