As the NCAA tournament approaches, the rivalry between UCLA and USC intensifies, with both teams battling for crucial positioning on the tournament bubble. The Bruins have solidified their place, thanks to an exhilarating comeback victory against Illinois, which showcased their resilience and potential. Head coach Mick Cronin’s squad managed to erase a 23-point deficit, marking the largest comeback in school history. The dramatic layup by Donovan Dent in the final seconds not only secured a 95-94 overtime win but also alleviated any growing pressure on the coaching staff and invigorated the players.
Currently, UCLA stands at 18-9 overall and 10-6 in the Big Ten, positioning them among the last four teams to receive a bye according to ESPN analyst Joe Lunardi’s latest bracket projections. On the other hand, the USC Trojans face a more precarious situation. With a record of 18-9 and 7-9 in conference play, they’ve stumbled, losing three consecutive games, including a disheartening defeat against Oregon that left coach Eric Musselman and his team reeling. “They knew what was at stake,” he said after the loss. “Somehow, we’ve got to try to regroup.”
The Trojans have the opportunity to flip their fortunes when they meet the Bruins at Pauley Pavilion this Tuesday. USC’s tendency to perform better on the road could prove beneficial, as they secured a vital victory against Wisconsin earlier this season. The return of guard Chad Baker-Mazara, who scored 21 points in his comeback game, adds an offensive edge that should enhance their chances against their rivals.
Amidst the pressure of impending tournament selections, both teams understand the importance of the upcoming matchups. With UCLA’s recent resurgence and USC’s need for redemption, every game becomes critical. The Bruin players, including Dent, recognize the urgency in solidifying their game plan: “We want the team that plays hard on defense, takes care of the ball and has great shots – that team is dangerous,” Dent stated, emphasizing the need for a collective effort and confidence on the court.
With only a few games left in the regular season, including a rematch in less than two weeks, both teams will strive to finish strong. A sense of desperation hangs in the air, with Dent acknowledging the stakes, “Our seasons are on the line right now.” As neither team has seen a sellout crowd this season, UCLA forward Eric Dailey Jr. made an appeal for fan support, highlighting the excitement surrounding this rivalry and the importance of home-court advantage.
In this highly competitive atmosphere, fans can expect a fierce matchup as these two storied programs vie not just for pride, but for a critical spot in the NCAA tournament. The future remains unwritten as both teams push forward, hoping to secure their legacies in this historic rivalry.