UCLA's season is on the line against No. 10 Illinois on Saturday with March fading away fast

UCLA will face off against Illinois in their next matchup. They will get to do so at Pauley Pavilion in what will be their 27th game of the season. This becomes a must-win matchup against the No. 10 team in the nation. With UCLA moving closer to missing the NCAA tournament if they're not able to pull off a big upset. They will be large underdogs for this game and whatever they have left in the tank they will need it. Illinois is one of the best teams in the nation and UCLA is reeling at the moment.

UCLA entered this season with high hopes. They brought over a star transfer in Donovan Dent after an amazing season with New Mexico. One that saw him win Mountain West Player of the Year in 2024 and take them to the tournament. Those expectations have not been lived up to as he has struggled with UCLA with consistency. His scoring is down, and he seems to have no confidence in his jumpshot that was once there.

UCLA also brought in Xavier Booker and Steven Jamerson II to help fill the center need. They each provide a different type of game but not what has been needed. Aday Mara seems to be a huge mistake as he has become one of the best defensive players in the nation. Doing so on the best team in the nation in Michigan. UCLA has been a very good 3-point shooting team. But are not using that as a strength as they are one of the lower-level teams in attempts.

It has been a very odd season for the Bruins to say the least. Going into game 27 we never thought that we would be talking about bubble watch. Especially with the talent that this team has. After a slow start to the season, we kept saying this team would figure it out. They have shown glimpses for a game or two at a time, but not consistency. Now Saturday becomes a make or break for them and could determine NCAA tournament or NIT.