UCLA Basketball: 5 things we learned from the non-conference schedule

2. Consistently inconsistent

Sure UCLA is 9-3 on the season, but it’s been very spotty at times. UCLA seems to play down to their opponent often and got caught in a few games they should’ve blown teams out of. Georgia Tech was a little too close for comfort. Central Arkansas found a few Bruin weakness when they forced overtime. And against South Dakota, well there’s no excuse for blowing a 25-point lead with five minutes left in the game. Sure, the Bruins won that game, they also lost a lot  when it came to fan confidence. “Fire Alford” was all over social media after that game.

And then guess what? In the next contest, UCLA goes out and plays a complete game against the #7 Kentucky Wildcats. UCLA was solid on offense behind behind a collective team effort and their defense was the best it’s been all season long.

UCLA held but Wildcats to 42.6% shooting, which is lower than their season average of 49.5%.

It’s stuff like this that gets Bruin fans worried about the season. They play up to their opponents, except Cincinnati, and then play down to lesser teams. UCLA has also been loose with finishing games. They have been able to step on the gas in several games at the beginning of the season, but then the Bruins get a little bit too confident and let things go. This is a huge theme to watch for a the season progresses.