Sissoko Shines: Scores 21 in Cal’s 82-71 Win Over BC

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    @USLive
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    BERKELEY, Calif. – In a thrilling display, Mady Sissoko achieved career-high stats with 21 points and 15 rebounds, propelling California to an 82-71 triumph over Boston College Saturday night and breaking a five-game losing streak.
    Boston College ignited the second half with a strong 15-3 surge, securing their first lead at 46-45 with 14:31 on the clock. They maintained a narrow advantage at 54-53 with just 10:39 left in the game. However, California’s Andrej Stojakovic and Jeremiah Wilkinson both scored critical 3-pointers, and Sissoko contributed five consecutive points during a decisive 11-0 run, advancing the Golden Bears to a 72-60 lead with roughly four minutes on the clock. Although Boston College managed to cut the gap to seven points twice in the final minutes, California’s control remained out of reach.
    Jovan Blacksher Jr. played an essential role for Cal (13-16, 6-12 ACC), contributing 18 points. Meanwhile, Stojakovic ended with 15 points, and Wilkinson added 14. For Boston College (12-17, 4-14), Donald Hand Jr. stood out by securing 19 points, bolstered by a perfect 10 of 10 performance at the free-throw line. Off the bench, Luka Toews added 14 points, while Dion Brown recorded a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds.
    In the first half, Blacksher made a significant difference by hitting three 3-pointers, contributing 12 points, guiding Cal to a halftime lead of 42-31. Boston College’s offensive efforts were led by Toews, who scored 12 points. Entering the game ranked 15th in the conference, Cal found themselves just above Boston College at 16th. With the ACC tournament approaching, only the top 15 teams out of 18 in the conference will advance.
    Historically, Cal hadn’t found success in their series against Boston College, standing 0-3 since 1987, with Boston College having won their last encounter, 64-60, on December 21, 2019, at the Chase Center in San Francisco.
    Looking forward, Boston College will host No. 13-ranked Clemson on Wednesday, while Cal is set to play against No. 19-ranked Louisville.