Go Joe Bruin
Fansided

UCLA Basketball: 5 Takeaways From the First Game Down Under

By Mike Regalado

February 4, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins guard Aaron Holiday (3) moves to the basket against Southern California Trojans guard Elijah Stewart (30) during the first half at Galen Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
February 4, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins guard Aaron Holiday (3) moves to the basket against Southern California Trojans guard Elijah Stewart (30) during the first half at Galen Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit

The UCLA Basketball team displayed an offensive showcase in their 123-75 win over Sydney University. Here are five things that stood out from the game.

It is definitely a new era for UCLA Basketball. The Bruins began their tour of Australia by obliterating their hosts, Sydney University in their first of three games.

Related Story: UCLA Basketball Dominates in Australia Tour Opening Game

With Bruin fans hoping for change after UCLA finished 15-17 last season, they will be very pleasantly surprised to know that things are looking up (and yes, I do know this is just one game).

Here are five things we took away from their 123-75 victory:

1. The Offense is More Fluid

With Lonzo Ball and Aaron Holiday running the point, the offense flowed a lot better than last season. One major factor for this was the collective passing of the team. Everyone looked for the extra pass and were patient. They also have an improved transition game which led to a lot of points for the Bruins.

2. Defense Improved, But Still Needs Work

More from Go Joe Bruin

Holiday and freshman center Ike Anogbogu were the best defenders on the team. Holiday was limiting chances outside while Anigbogu was disrupting things down low. The Bruins as a whole were a bit tougher, but they have to learn to be a little more physical.

UCLA needs to stay in front of their man and learn to take a charge. Sydney too often was able to blow past the Bruins for easy looks. UCLA also needs to defend the three-point line better. The Bruins would put a hand up, but the challenges were often weak. Its only the first game, so improvements should happen by the time the have their first game on Novemeber 11.

3. It Is Not Bryce-centric

It seems Steve Alford is using Bryce Alford‘s talents to both of their advantage, finally. With Ball and Holiday running the point, Alford was able to move around with less attention than last year. Last season, Alford would often do too much and draw tough defense and even double-teams, which he would try to shoot his way out of.

Against Syndey he was able to fade into the background and break away from his defenders to hit several outside shots. Alford ended the night with 17 points. I really like this move.

4. The Freshmen Are Very Good

Lonzo Ball, as expected was good as a point guard. He made great passes and really opened up the offense. TJ Leaf is an incredible scorer. He was able to move with ease against Sydney under the rim and finished with a game-high 21 points.

Persoanlly, Anigbogu was the frosh that stood out for me. Not only did he throw down some vicious dunks, but authoritatively swatted a few balls out of his area. He is already a great addition to the front court.

5. The Veterans Looked Improved

Welsh has an amazing hook shot and should be even more of an offensive force this upcoming season. Hamilton continued to be an effective shooter and started the game on fire as he hit several shots from the outside.

Next: UCLA Basketball: 5 Things to Look For Down Under

Holiday was aggressive from the get-go and could be the best defender on the team. As for Alford, he did a good job playing out on the wing and should be deadly if he develops into that role.