UCLA puts together a complete game in rout of crosstown rival USC Trojans

UCLA moved to 19-9 on the season. As they picked up a big-time win against USC at home on Tuesday night. Winning 81-62 and playing a complete game, just a few nights after their upset win over Illinois. Starting a nice two game winning streak in hopes of a late season push. The Bruins have struggled for consistency this season and need to put something together. These last two games have been a big positive in the right direction. Their offense and defense has looked much better.

On the night, the Bruins shot 49% on offense. But the best part about their team is they held USC to only 35% shooting. Putting together a great defensive effort as they were able to lead most of the night. With just a few lead changes at the beginning of the game before UCLA took over. They also shot 12-14 from the free-throw line, which is an area they’ve struggled for consistency this season. They will need to build on that as you cannot leave free points out on the floor each night.

Donovan Dent who has taken a ton of criticism this year for his inconsistent play. He had his best game as a Bruin. Easily being the best player on the floor scoring 30 points on 10-16 shooting to go along with seven assists. That is the player UCLA was getting when they decided to dip into the transfer portal this past offseason. The talent is there and when Dent puts it together, he is so good.

Tyler Bilodeau and Trent Perry each chipped in with 13 points. Then Xavier Booker had 11 points off the bench. This may be the spark plug that the bench needed and for Booker to find consistency as well. UCLA has gotten their best output from the bench the last two games. When they needed it the most. Now at 19-9, the Bruins will head to Minnesota for a road matchup. A game that they should be heavy favorites in. They will look to get to the 20-win mark and continue their streak.