California looks to improve its overall record when it tips off against Idaho State on Wednesday night, opening a stretch of four consecutive home nonconference basketball games in Berkeley.

The Golden Bears (4-5, 1-1 in Pac-12) haven't helped their chances of eventually landing an NCAA Tournament bid by losing four of their first seven nonconference games, including an 80-67 stunner in the opener against UC San Diego.

But the start of Pacific-12 Conference play has helped Cal steady the ship. The Golden Bears followed up a 65-57 nonconference win over previously unbeaten Fresno State with a split of their first two Pac-12 games, including a 73-61 home victory over Oregon State.