UCLA gets much needed win before heading to Michigan for season-defining games

UCLA was able to pick up a big win on Saturday night. As they moved to 17-7 on the season with a win over Washington by a final score of 77-73. It was a must win game for UCLA as they now head to Michigan for the start of a three-game stretch against all top 10 teams. Every win is crucial for this team as the NCAA tournament is approaching closer. They will need to get the best seed possible in the Big Ten tournament as well because if they do not, it will be a tall challenge to go through the tourney.

Trent Perry continued his excellence in the starting lineup as he led all scorers with 23 points. Tyler Bilodeau followed him up with 19 points. Then Donovan Dent who struggled shooting at only 5-16 on the night had another double double with 17 points and 10 assists. The UCLA starters scored 74 of the 77 points. As their bench continued to struggle for any consistency. Ever since Skyy Clark went out with his injury, the Bruins have relied heavily on their starters.

Mick Cronin was not happy with the officiating and made it known

Wesley Yates III led Washington with 23 points. The Bruins did a good job to limit the looks of Hannes Steinbach as he only had 13 points and 7 rebounds. But he did so on 5-7 shooting from the floor. The Huskies shot 50% on the night and dominated the paint with 44 points compared to the Bruins 18 points. Cronin was not very happy postgame with the officiating, and he made it known in his presser before the question even came up.

With the Bruins at 17-7 now on the season. They will board a plane to Michigan to face the Wolverines. The No. 2 team in the country is 21-1 on the season and serious championship contenders. The Bruins defense will try to slow down former center Aday Mara who has been outstanding this season. It will not be an easy game, but an upset could play big dividends towards tournament hopes. UCLA cannot afford to go 0-3 in this stretch and sit at 17-10.