"We really want to get to that next step, get that program to another level by winning an NCAA Tournament (game). It'll be exciting not only for us, but for past student-athletes who've played in this program who've helped paved our path here."

Moore sticking to her decision

Despite the team's run of success that's included another NCAA Tournament bid, Moore said she's sticking to her decision to skip her senior season at Fresno State.

Moore cited injuries in announcing her plans just before the end of the regular season. She had ankle surgery before this season and said she has played in pain throughout the year.

Moore still has averaged a team-best 17.2 points, 6.3 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 3.1 steals. She was an All-Mountain West first-team selection, the conference Defensive Player of the Year and the conference tournament MVP.

"Ever since I made the decision, I haven't thought (any more) about it," Moore said. "I've just been focused on us and what we're trying to do.

"Right now, my decision is made. I'm just sticking with what I made."

Moore had a noticeable limp when she came off the bus Sunday afternoon as the team returned from the MWC tournament in Las Vegas. She was expected to sit out most of the practices this week to help her body recover.

Pebley said she would welcome Moore's return next season, but didn't sound convinced that there was much of a chance that would happen.

"You know, my door is always open," Pebley said. "We'd love to have a player of Ki-Ki's talent back. We just want her to be happy with her decision."

Rivalries resume

Moore, who went to Sacred Heart Cathedral Prep in San Francisco, said she knows many of the Cal players and was recruited by the Bears coming out of high school.

She instead chose Washington State, later transferring to Fresno State.

"It's just exciting to play California again, against a lot of players who I know, and get them on a neutral court all the way in Texas," Moore said.

Rooting section

Fresno State point guard Taylor Thompson was excited specifically about the destination. She expects a big group of family and friends to make the 41/2-hour road trip from her hometown of Cache, Okla., to attend Saturday's game.

Thompson took a big shot during the Mountain West tournament final when she ran into a screen set by a San Diego State player, but said she is fully recovered from the hit and is expecting a close game against Cal.

"Any time you see the No. 2 seed against a No. 15 seed, you're automatically like 'Oh, the No. 2 seed is going to dominate that game,' " Thompson said. "But I think we're a good matchup for Cal. I haven't seen them play this year, but from what I know and what people have told me, I think that's going to be a good matchup for us.

"I hope I have a lot of family and friends there to see it."

Spokane Regional

No. 15 Fresno State vs. No. 2 Cal

Vitals: 1:20 p.m. Saturday at United Spirit Arena in Lubbock, Texas (ESPN2)

Records: Bulldogs 24-8; Golden Bears 28-3 Radio: KFPT (AM 790)

Last meeting: Cal won 70-47 in first round of 2009 NCAA Tournament