UCLA Tops Ohio State, Extends Winning Streak to 24, and Secures Spot in Big Ten Tournament Final
UCLA Women’s Basketball Poised for Big Ten Championship
INDIANAPOLIS — The UCLA women’s basketball team is on the brink of a significant achievement as they advance to the Big Ten tournament championship for the second consecutive year. The Bruins secured their spot with a 72-62 victory against fifth-seeded Ohio State during the semifinals on Saturday at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
Lauren Betts was a standout performer, contributing nearly a double-double with 14 points and nine rebounds. Kiki Rice also had an impressive outing, finishing with 17 points and eight rebounds. This victory marks UCLA’s 24th consecutive win and maintains their perfect record in conference play.
The Bruins, now 30-1 overall and 20-0 in the Big Ten, started strong, establishing a 12-3 lead in the opening quarter thanks to three straight baskets from Rice. Although Ohio State narrowed the gap to four points, UCLA capitalized on nine first-half turnovers to expand their lead to 32-21 by halftime.
Despite shooting only 1-for-9 from three-point range in the first half, UCLA’s offensive efficiency remained solid, finishing the game with a shooting percentage of 44.4%. Ohio State, with a season-low of 62 points, fought hard, trailing by single digits late in the game. Chance Gray led the Buckeyes with 23 points.
Earlier this season, UCLA faced a tight challenge against Ohio State, narrowly winning 82-75 in December. The Buckeyes, currently ranked No. 11 in the Associated Press top 25 poll, are anticipated to host a first-round NCAA tournament game.
The Bruins will meet the winner of the Michigan versus Iowa matchup in the Big Ten championship game on Sunday, set to tip off at 11:15 a.m., with coverage on CBS.
