Donovan Dent has brushed aside the criticism to lead the Bruins to two important wins

Donovan Dent on Tuesday night had his best game as a Bruin. Proving to be the player that the Bruins hoped they were getting when they landed him in the transfer portal. Dent has a ton of talent, but has battled inconsistencies this season and has been scrutinized for it. But when he is on, he can be one of the best players in the nation. He didn’t win Mountain West Player of the Year in 2024 for no reason. Dent is a dynamic player and an elite passer.

The Bruins have needed their best play out of Dent and have received it over the last two games. After hitting the game-winning bucket and dropping 14 points and 15 assists against Illinois in an upset win. He was able to follow that up against USC with a 30 point and seven assist game. Helping coast the Bruins to their 19th win of the season. Showing that he is more than capable of carrying a team when needed still.

Dent is also playing for an NBA future. He came into this season as a possible second round pick. Due to the inconsistency that he has shown this season; most mock drafts have him as an undrafted free agent now. But the talent is there for him to succeed at the next level. He is elite at getting to the basket when he goes downhill and has tremendous court vision. Showing that he can be a great floor general.

Dent will continue to be a crucial part of this UCLA offense. They have three more regular season games left before the Big Ten tournament. With these past two wins, they should find themselves in the NCAA tournament as well. The talent is there for them to make a run. But this team will need to put it all together, led by Dent controlling the pace of the game. Being able to score the ball as well as set up as teammates for good looks.