UCLA makes the leap to No. 2 in latest rankings

After Oklahoma upset South Carolina, it was very likely that UCLA would move up to No. 2 in the newest rankings. That became a reality on Monday afternoon. As the 19-1 Bruins moved ahead of South Carolina into the spot behind No. 1 UCONN. Putting the women in a great position to finish this regular season out and head towards the Big Ten tournament. This is the best team that UCLA has ever had and they will need everything they have to win it all. UCONN is dominate as well.

The Bruins are playing elite on offense and defense. Their one loss on the season came against Texas. It was a game where UCLA struggled most of the game but still had it within four points late in the game with a chance to win it. On a day where Lauren Betts was hurt they gave it a valiant effort. If those two teams played today, UCLA wins by at least 10 points. They have been that good and continue to get better as each game goes by.

UCONN is not slowing down at all. It is going to take a lot to bump them from the No. 1 ranking. But the goal needs to be getting to March and if UCLA wants to win a championship. They know they are going to have to cross that path at some point. There is no running from it. It will be curious to see how the brackets play out. If UCLA and UCONN end up on the same side or could meet in the title game. Also, who fills in as No. 2 and No. 3 seeds in their regions. A tougher path could wear a team out a bit.

The Bruins have everything they need to make that run. Gianna Kneepkens has been the perfect addition to this team. Betts is back to playing at an elite level. Then Kiki Rice and Gabriela Jaquez have both boosted their draft status with great senior seasons. Charlisse Leger-Walker has been a solid addition as well. This team has eight players that could lead the team in scoring on any given game. They will need every ounce of scoring and defense they can get.