Gonzaga will test the Bruins defensive progress this season

The UCLA defense has been a work in progress this season. They have shown glimpses of being a top-notch defensive team. Then games where their coverages break down and the opponents get easy looks. Arizona is 8-0 and the number one team in the nation. UCLA took them down to the wire in a 69-65 loss. They played great defense all night until the last few minutes. Ultimately blowing the lead in that game, because they could not get stops when it mattered most.

UCLA has all the tools to be a great consistent defensive team. The speed, length and athleticism are all elite. But the chemistry still seems to be in motion. Holding back their identity and showing the consistency. They will have a few good games and then drop back. Such as the game against the Cal Golden Bears where they looked lost most of the night. A night in which they gave up 11 3-point baskets.

When the Bruins opened the year against Eastern Washington it was very concerning the number of easy looks they generated. The switches were not there, and the paint was left wide open. But it was first game with a brand-new team. You give them the benefit of the doubt and chalk up the win and watch film. But when it continued it started to get concerning and something needed to change. Now with Gonzaga they are going to see how far they have come as a unit. Because this team is a serious March Madness contender.

Gonzaga has seven games of 90+ points and four of 100+ points. This team can flat out score the basketball at a high clip. UCLA will not have room for any error. You will not win a high scoring battle with them, so you will need to defend well. Keep the score in a manageable 70-80 range and you will have a good chance. Easier said than done but practice film of the Michigan game of when they beat the Zags 101-61. That will not happen again but maybe you can key in on some weaknesses.