UCLA picks up 67-55 win over Maryland Terrapins

UCLA was able to get back into the win column on Saturday night. They hosted the Maryland Terrapins at Pauley Pavilion in a game that suddenly became a must win. The Bruins responded by getting a win with Skyy Clark still sidelined by an injury. Trent Perry filled in well and continued the growth in his game. UCLA now sits at 11-5 on the season. Ending their two game slide that saw them struggle on many fronts.

One area that the Bruins continue to struggle with is consistent bench play. The starters are playing heavy minutes and scoring the bulk of the points. Fatigue will become a factor at some point. Getting Clark back will help as they can move Perry back to the bench to help with scoring. The Bruins also continue to struggle from the free throw line after showing some growth before their losing skid. They’re leaving points of the floor that will cost them close games if it continues.

A big positive on the night was the Bruins defense. They were able to force Maryland to shoot only 30% on the night which included 6-33 from 3-point range. It was an odd night as even though they played great defense, they were out rebounded by a margin of 48-29. They made up for it with fast break points and points off of turnovers. As they were able to force Maryland into 13 turnovers, while playing clean basketball with only six turnovers of their own.

The Bruins at 11-5 will now head on the road for a matchup with Penn State. The Nittany Lions sit at 9-7 on the season. With how UCLA is playing, this also becomes a must win game. Because of the fact UCLA has dropped games this season that they should’ve won. They need to decide what type of team they want to be. Either contenders or pretenders. The positive is they have yet to put together a full game, but at the same time that could be a negative. Because either they have yet to reach their potential or simply just isn’t there.