UCLA needs to find bench production to be successful

UCLA went to the Intuit Dome for a top 15 showdown with Arizona on Friday night. Both teams were 3-0 but on completely different paths. Arizona had a top 10 win versus Florida and UCLA had three wins in games they didn’t come close to covering. But oddsmakers didn’t believe the schedules would play a part and had Arizona as only a three point favorite. Arizona ended up with a 69-65 win and they were pretty spot on.

UCLA tightened up pretty well on defense. Especially considering the opponent. If it wasn’t for a Jaden Bradley late game hot streak, UCLA quite possibly gets the win. Which would’ve been great but doesn’t cover up the big flaw that the Bruins have. Which is a bench that can help the rotation. Relieving the pressure on starters having to play 36-38 minutes every night.

They did not get that production against Arizona and it cost them. Trent Perry, Jamar Brown and Steven Jamerson II figure to be first three off the bench. With Brandon Williams figuring into some matchups. The bench combined for three points with the starters scoring 62 of the 65 points. Showing that one injury this season could derail March hopes. Mick Cronin was an advocate after the game on what needs to be done for UCLA to compete in big game situations.

It is early in the season, but it is cause for concern. Jamerson II and Brown who played at much smaller schools before transferring. Seemed to have trouble keeping up with the speed. As the season wears on, there will be minor bumps and bruises. So, UCLA has to find some power off of the bench. The positive is Perry has shown it is there and he will be counted on heavily to turn it back on.