TIME UPDATE: A major schedule change has been made for the basketball game between California and Duke, with the official broadcast time now updated. Here’s what fans need to know. 👇👇
In the ever-evolving landscape of college basketball scheduling, last-minute adjustments can send shockwaves through fanbases—especially when it involves a top-ranked powerhouse like the No. 6 Duke Blue Devils facing off against a rising ACC contender in the California Golden Bears.
What was billed as a late-night thriller has undergone a notable tweak, and Duke fans (along with Cal supporters hoping for an upset) are scrambling to adjust their viewing plans.
The Duke vs. Cal men’s basketball matchup, part of Duke’s challenging West Coast road trip, was originally set for an 11:00 PM ET tip-off (8:00 PM PT local time) on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at Haas Pavilion in Berkeley.
This late start—common for cross-country games to accommodate TV slots—was already a test of endurance for East Coast viewers. However, in a move that has fans buzzing, the official broadcast time has been shifted slightly to better align with network priorities and viewer accessibility.
The updated start time is now confirmed at 9:00 PM ET (6:00 PM PT), according to the latest from ACC Network and Duke Athletics sources. This adjustment moves the game forward by two hours, making it more manageable for national audiences while still preserving the prime-time feel.
The broadcast remains exclusively on ACC Network, with the familiar duo of Wes Durham and Dennis Scott on the call. For radio listeners, the Blue Devil Sports Network (featuring David Shumate and John Roth) and Cal’s KSFO 810 AM will provide live coverage.
Why the Change? Key Factors Behind the Update
Schedule tweaks like this aren’t uncommon in college sports, especially mid-season when TV windows, travel logistics, and competing events come into play. Here’s what likely drove this one:
TV Network Optimization: ACC Network, as part of ESPN’s family, often juggles slots to maximize viewership. Pushing the game earlier avoids direct conflicts with late-night NBA or other college hoops action, potentially boosting ratings for a high-profile No. 6 vs. unranked but competitive matchup.
West Coast Considerations: With Duke traveling from the East Coast, the original 11 PM ET start would have meant an even later finish (potentially past 1 AM ET). The shift gives players, staff, and fans a more reasonable end time while still capitalizing on West Coast prime time.
Fan Feedback and Accessibility: Late-night games can frustrate international and East Coast fans. This change makes streaming easier via ESPN+, Fubo, or other services without requiring an all-nighter.
No major delays (like weather or venue issues) were cited— this appears to be a proactive broadcast adjustment rather than a postponement.
What This Means for the Game Itself
The on-court stakes remain sky-high. Duke enters with a stellar 15-1 record (4-0 in ACC play), riding momentum from recent wins and led by stars like Caleb Foster (scoring machine with clutch performances) and Cameron Boozer (dominant in the paint with double-doubles).
The Blue Devils are looking to extend their winning streak and solidify their top-tier status ahead of a tough stretch, including a follow-up at Stanford on January 17.
Cal, at 13-4 (1-3 ACC), has been a surprise in their new conference home.
Playing in front of a sold-out Haas Pavilion crowd (tickets are scarce for this historic first-ever Duke visit to Berkeley), the Golden Bears rely on guard Dai Dai Ames (averaging nearly 18 PPG) and a tough home defense to pull off the upset.
Cal’s recent losses haven’t diminished their fight—especially against a blue-blood program.
The spread favors Duke heavily (around -12 to -14 depending on books), with the total sitting under 152.5 in many lines. But upsets happen on the road, and Cal’s energy at Haas could make this closer than expected.
How to Watch the Updated Broadcast Date: Wednesday, January 14, 2026 New Start Time: 9:00 PM ET / 6:00 PM PT TV Channel: ACC Network Streaming Options: ESPN app, Watch ESPN, Fubo, YouTube TV (with ACCN add-on), or other cable providers carrying ACCN Radio: Blue Devil Sports Network (siriusxm.com or app) / KSFO 810 AM for Cal Live Updates: Follow on goduke.com, calbears.com, ESPN.com (game ID 401820666), or apps like theScore and CBS Sports for real-time scores, stats, and highlights.
Fan Reactions and What’s Next for Duke
Social media is already lighting up with mixed feelings—relief from those who dreaded staying up until 2 AM, frustration from West Coast fans now facing an earlier dinner-time tip, and excitement for the game itself. “Finally a reasonable time for East Coast Duke fans!” one viral tweet read.
Others joked about the “nap schedule” being saved.
This West Coast swing is crucial for Duke’s resume. A win here sets up momentum for Stanford, then back home for Wake Forest, Louisville, and the always-intense rivalry with North Carolina. For Cal, it’s a chance to make a statement in the ACC and build on their solid non-conference play.
In college basketball, where every possession counts, schedule changes remind us that adaptability is key—on and off the court. Whether you’re a die-hard Blue Devil, a Golden Bear believer, or just a hoops fan, tune in at the new time.
This one promises drama, dunks, and potentially a signature moment in what’s shaping up as an unforgettable 2025-26 season.
