Trent Perry will be the X-factor in the UCLA Bruins NCAA tournament run

Trent Perry’s emergence this season has been huge for UCLA. Without his improved play from his freshman year. UCLA might not be in the NCAA tournament. With the team battling so many injuries this season. Including playing an extended period of time without Skyy Clark. Perry has had some huge games that have ultimately led to Bruins wins. He has become an important part of this team and has a bright future ahead of him.

Now with UCLA opening up their March Madness schedule on Friday against UCF. Perry becomes the most important player and the X-factor for this UCLA team. His ability on offense to space the floor and drive and create contact will help this team as they prepare to make a run. Perry is very good downhill and can also shoot the ball very well which keeps defenses on its heels and can break down a zone defense when the offense becomes stagnant.

Perry averaged 12.7 points per game this season and did so on 44.6/41.2/87.4 shooting splits. Having the ability to score from all three levels of the floor is huge for this team. Similar to what leading scorer Tyler Bilodeau can do. This team with their healthy starters can compete with almost anyone in the nation. They’ve been clicking at the right time and seemed to have found their groove.

UCLA will need all hands on deck as they navigate their tough region. One that includes Duke, UCONN, Michigan State and St. John’s. Any run that UCLA plans on making they will need to play some of the best teams in the nation. Having a player like Perry playing at a high level will only elevate this team. Add in Donovan Dent and Bilodeau returning from injury and it will be fun to watch this team.