UC Davis claimed the 123rd Causeway Classic with a thrilling 77-73 victory over Sacramento State. The game took place on November 14, 2025 at the University Credit Union Center. Connor Sevilla led the way with 20 points. The Aggies improved to 3-1 with the win.
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🔥 Quick Facts:
- UC Davis outscored Sacramento State 43-37 in the second half.
- Marcus Wilson hit a late jumper with under 10 seconds to seal the win.
- Connor Sevilla shot 7-for-11 from the field and 4-for-8 from three-point range.
- Four Aggies scored in double figures led by Sevilla’s 20 points.
- UC Davis forced 14 turnovers and scored 36 points in the paint.
How UC Davis Dominated Late in the Causeway Classic
Sacramento State held a 36-34 halftime lead. The Hornets extended their advantage early in the second half. Then UC Davis executed a perfect late-game script.
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Sevilla’s three-pointer at 15:14 started the Aggies’ comeback push. Omer Suljanovic and Nils Cooper provided consistent scoring. The deficit narrowed as both teams traded baskets.
“The dagger. The stop. 3-0 in the UCU.”
With momentum shifting, UC Davis forced critical turnovers. Wilson knocked down his clutch jumper with seconds remaining. UC Davis then delivered a defensive stop on the final possession.
Balanced Scoring Powers UC Davis Past Sacramento State
The Aggies showcased offensive balance with four double-figure scorers. Sevilla’s 20 points paced the attack with efficient shooting. Suljanovic added 13 points on 5-for-7 shooting.
Nils Cooper contributed 14 points and three steals for UC Davis. Marcus Wilson scored 12 points with six rebounds. Niko Rocak anchored the interior with four blocks and eight rebounds.
| Player | Points | Rebounds | Key Stat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Connor Sevilla | 20 | N/A | 4-for-8 from three |
| Nils Cooper | 14 | N/A | 5-for-6 from line |
| Marcus Wilson | 12 | 6 | Game-winning jumper |
| Omer Suljanovic | 13 | N/A | 5-for-7 shooting |
| Niko Rocak | 7 | 8 | 4 blocks, 5 assists |
UC Davis forced 14 turnovers and recorded 10 steals. The Aggies scored 36 points in the paint. Defensive intensity proved crucial throughout the final minutes.
What’s Next for UC Davis Basketball
The Aggies travel to Reno, Nevada for their next game. They’ll face the Nevada Wolf Pack on Tuesday, Nov. 18. The contest tips off at 7 p.m. at the Lawlor Events Center.
UC Davis will look to build on this momentum with another quality road win. The team’s balanced offense and defensive pressure proved effective. Expect coach Jim Les to emphasize consistency moving forward.
The Aggies’ depth will be tested in Reno against a tough opponent. Every player on the roster contributed to the Causeway Classic victory. This team appears ready to compete in conference play.
Why the Causeway Classic Matters to College Basketball Fans
The Causeway Classic represents one of college basketball’s great rivalries. UC Davis and Sacramento State have battled since 1948. The geographic proximity fuels intense competition annually.
This rivalry breeds passionate fan bases on both sides. Students and alumni take pride in bragging rights. The 123rd edition lived up to the hype with a thrilling finish.
Marcus Wilson’s game-winner will be remembered by fans for years. Classic rivalries deliver these unforgettable moments. Both teams showed excellent effort and execution throughout the contest.
The rivalry extends beyond basketball to football as well. Both schools battle annually in the Causeway Classic across sports. This basketball win gives UC Davis momentum heading into conference action.
Can UC Davis Keep This Winning Formula Going?
The Aggies improved to 3-1 overall with this crucial conference matchup looming. Their balanced scoring approach gives them flexibility. Every starter contributed meaningfully to the victory against Sacramento State.
Coach Jim Les has implemented a system that maximizes player strengths. Sevilla’s three-point shooting creates spacing for drives. Suljanovic’s aggressive finishing dominates inside the paint.
If this balanced approach continues working, expect a strong season. UC Davis has weapons to compete with any opponent. The conference schedule will test their mettle moving forward.
Will consistency on defense carry into future matchups? The Aggies forced 14 turnovers in the Causeway Classic. Defensive intensity like that makes any team dangerous in tournaments.
Sources
- UC Davis Athletics – Official game recap and statistics
- ESPN – Box score and game analytics
- Sacramento State Athletics – Hornets perspective on the game
Michael Brown is a seasoned sports journalist bringing years of experience covering professional athletics and sporting culture. With a keen eye for breaking stories and player dynamics, this veteran journalist delivers in-depth analysis and exclusive insights from the world’s biggest sporting events. His passion for the game shines through in every story, keeping fans connected to the action both on and off the field.