UCLA Takes Down USC, Earning a Double Bye in the Big Ten Tournament
UCLA Bruins Dominate USC in 89-68 Victory
In a decisive matchup on Saturday night, the UCLA men’s basketball team showcased its formidable presence in the NCAA tournament landscape by defeating crosstown rival USC 89-68 at the Galen Center. The victory not only solidified UCLA’s chances of a strong postseason run but also left USC’s hopes flickering as the season draws to a close.
Star guard Donovan Dent delivered an outstanding performance, contributing 25 points and seven assists—tying his second-highest score of the season. His efforts were pivotal in the Bruins’ commanding display, pushing UCLA to a No. 6 seed in the upcoming Big Ten tournament, along with a significant bye through the first two rounds.
Both teams faced contrasting trajectories leading up to the game. UCLA (21-10, 13-7 Big Ten) had gained momentum with recent victories over ranked opponents Illinois and Nebraska, while USC (18-13, 7-13 Big Ten) struggled with a seven-game losing streak, unable to recover from significant defeats against the Huskers and the Illini, as well as two losses to the Bruins.
The beginning of the game suggested a tighter contest, as USC, missing top scorer Chad Baker-Mazara due to disciplinary actions earlier in the week, managed to tie the game six times. However, UCLA shifted gears with a powerful 13-1 run midway through the first half, taking a commanding lead.
UCLA forward Tyler Bilodeau played a crucial role during this stretch, scoring all 16 of his points with impressive 70% shooting in the first half, while also contributing eight rebounds. The Bruins dominated both inside and from beyond the arc, outrebounding USC 37-26 and shooting a remarkable 53% from three-point range. Notably, UCLA excelled in making contested mid-range jump shots, particularly by Dent.
Support from Bruins fans was palpable, with the Men of Westwood organizing transportation for 1,000 supporters to witness the game. UCLA’s efficiency was evident, as they shot 58% from the field, overshadowing USC’s 43%. Dent excelled in the second half, making 8 of 11 shots.
Though USC’s freshman standout Alijah Arenas made a respectable contribution with 20 points, he faced significant challenges, as many of his teammates, including Ezra Ausar, Kam Woods, and Jordan Marsh, found themselves in foul trouble. As a result, their offensive options were severely limited. Arenas finished the game with three fouls, while Ausar fouled out, having contributed a double-double with 12 points and 11 rebounds.
In addition to Dent and Bilodeau, Eric Dailey Jr. added 19 points and eight rebounds, Eric Freeny contributed 10 points, and Treny Perry registered eight points and four assists. Guard Skyy Clark, who returned from a hamstring injury, faced difficulties offensively, missing all five attempts from the field.
As both teams prepare for the Big Ten tournament, the Bruins ride a wave of momentum, while the Trojans must regroup after a challenging stretch. The outcomes of future games will be critical for UCLA as it seeks to improve its standing ahead of Selection Sunday.
