No. 19-ranked UCLA is set to embark on a road trip through the Pacific Northwest following a final home game against Presbyterian on Friday at Los Angeles. The Bruins, currently boasting a 4-1 record, will be looking to build momentum against the Blue Hose, who are finishing up a three-game road stint in California.
Presbyterian (3-4) enters this matchup on a three-game losing streak, having recently dropped games to Sacramento State and California. The same Sacramento State team that defeated Presbyterian 64-62 last Sunday was also UCLA’s most recent opponent, as the Bruins bounced back from a tough 69-65 loss to Arizona with a commanding 79-48 victory.
UCLA coach Mick Cronin made strategic adjustments in the starting lineup for Tuesday’s game, opting to bring Tyler Bilodeau, Xavier Booker, Donovan Dent, and Skyy Clark off the bench. This decision resulted in a dominant interior performance, highlighted by a strong defensive effort that held Sacramento State to only 13 successful field goals out of 54 attempts.
Cronin noted the importance of commitment and work ethic, stating, “Right now, we’re in a mode of trying to learn how to play hard enough to earn the jersey that they wear.” While Eric Dailey Jr. has consistently started in all four of his appearances, the lineup changes also included Jamar Brown and Trent Perry making their second starts, with Steven Jamerson II and Brandon Williams also stepping into starting roles for the first time.
Despite being among the top scorers for UCLA, Bilodeau and Dent faced challenges during Tuesday’s game. Dent ended up with five points from a 2-of-9 shooting night and struggled at the free-throw line, while Bilodeau fouled out within 18 minutes after shooting only 1-of-5. As they prepare for the matchup against Presbyterian, finding a reliable offensive rhythm will be crucial for the Bruins, especially with the Blue Hose limiting their opponents to 69.9 points per game.
Presbyterian’s offensive struggles have been evident, and the team has yet to score more than 68 points against NCAA Division I competition this season. Averaging 67.3 points per game, they rank No. 330 nationally, with Jonah Pierce leading the team at 15 points per game. Notably, the Blue Hose have managed to maintain a strong defense that may prove vital in the upcoming game.
“With our program, I don’t expect anything less than that,” said Blue Hose coach Quinton Ferrell, expressing confidence in his team’s readiness for the challenge despite facing setbacks, including the absence of Erik Taylor due to injury. Having Josh Pickett step up as point guard following limited preparation highlights the team’s resilience.
As both teams gear up for this matchup, fans can anticipate an intense battle that will test their offensive capabilities and defensive strategies. With both teams aiming to turn the tide, this game presents an opportunity for UCLA to solidify their standing and for Presbyterian to break their losing streak.