UCLA defeats Oregon on their home court and now is tied with Maryland for fourth place in the Big Ten standings.
UCLA dominated the game, securing a decisive victory over No. 16 Oregon with a final score of 78–52. This team has secured five consecutive victories, and this win over the Duck was impressive. They outscored Oregon 40 to 26 in the first half and this was only Oregon's fifth loss of the season.
The Bruins demonstrated their offensive prowess by converting 55.6% of their field goal attempts and an impressive 47.8% from beyond the arc. When UCLA lost games this season, it was usually because of their difficulties shooting threes and below 40% from the field.
Erik Dailey Jr. led all scorers with an impressive 21 points, making eight of his nine shot attempts from the field and all three shots from beyond the arc. Tyler Bilodeau and Dylan Andrews each contributed 15 points, and both made three out of their five three-point attempts.
UCLA's formidable defense often thwarted the Ducks throughout the game, limiting their scoring to a season-low 52 points. Oregon struggled with their long-range shooting, converting just 4 of 23 attempts from beyond the arc. The Bruins' defense continues to play well during their five-game winning streak.
Following Oregon's effort to narrow the gap to 10 points in the second half, UCLA unleashed a decisive 22-4 run that clinched the victory and satisfied the crowd. The Bruins's ability to not give up a big lead like they had done earlier in the season against North Carolina is a strong show of positive progress for this season.
The Bruins continued to showcase their dominance at home, improving their record to an impressive 9-1 at Pauley Pavilion. Being able to win at home this season, especially during Big Ten play, is very important.
Bilodeau's return was significant as he was out with an injury against USC, and he contributed 15 points, six rebounds, four assists, and a blocked shot against the Ducks. Aday Mara didn't start this game, but he played 20 minutes and continues to give the Bruins frontcourt meaningful minutes, which they were lacking during the first four Big Ten games this season.
The win moves UCLA into a tie for fourth place with Maryland. They host first-place Michigan State on Tuesday and a win at home would not only be their sixth straight win, but it would also put them in great position for their quest to receive a top four bid for the Big Ten tournament.