LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) — The UCLA Bruins delivered an impressive performance during the first round of the NCAA Tournament on Thursday night, defeating the Utah State Aggies 72-47. The seventh-seeded Bruins were led by Skyy Clark and Eric Dailey Jr., each scoring 14 points, while Aday Mara contributed 10 points from the bench. This victory marks UCLA's advancement to the Round of 32 for the fourth time in the last five tournaments.
The game, played at Rupp Arena, saw UCLA (23-10) come out strong against the tenth-seeded Aggies (26-8). Both teams entered the tournament with high expectations; Utah State was aiming for its second consecutive NCAA win, following their first-round victory over TCU last year. However, coach Jarrod Calhoun’s team struggled to find its rhythm against the Bruins.
UCLA controlled the game from the beginning, establishing a 39-27 lead at halftime after a 12-2 run. The Bruins added a 17-7 surge in the second half, increasing their lead to 20 points early in the period. UCLA finished the game with a shooting percentage of 48%, making 10 of their 24 attempts from beyond the arc.
Throughout the game, the Bruins showcased a deep bench, with eight players scoring points. Dylan Andrews had an impactful role with eight assists and eight points, while Kobe Johnson also added eight points. Coach Mick Cronin praised his team's effort, particularly their passing and cutting against Utah State's matchup zone defense. "The guys just did a great job," Cronin noted. "It helped us to have three days because against a matchup zone defense you have to score on passing and cutting. You can't dribble your way into it. They're going to steal the ball."
Meanwhile, Utah State struggled offensively, shooting just 30% from the field and a dismal 4-of-31 from three-point range. This shooting struggle contributed to 11 turnovers, resulting in 20 points for UCLA. Aggies coach Jarrod Calhoun commented on the shooting woes, saying, "I thought in the first half, they made shots... so much this time of year is about shot-making. And when you don't make shots, it affects your defense." Mason Falslev led the Aggies with 17 points, while Deyton Albury added 12.
Looking ahead to their next challenge, UCLA will face second-seeded Tennessee on Saturday, March 22. The Bruins last faced Tennessee over 48 years ago when they won 103-89 in Atlanta. Cronin expressed satisfaction with his team's performance but acknowledged that there was room for improvement: "We've been preparing all year to play Saturday." This upcoming matchup will be another test for UCLA as they seek their fourth Sweet 16 appearance in the last five NCAA tournaments.
For Utah State, the loss means they will miss out on the chance to advance further in the tournament, putting pressure on coach Calhoun as speculation grows regarding his coaching future. He has been linked to other coaching vacancies, yet he focused on the team's recent achievements and potential, stating, "I think Utah State can win a national championship. I wouldn't say that if I didn't believe it." Knowing this, the Aggies' future under Calhoun remains one to watch.
The Bruins have proven their strength this season, now winning 12 of their last 16 games. Their ability to share the ball effectively was on full display with 22 assists on 26 baskets. As they prepare for Tennessee, both UCLA and the Aggies can reflect on a season filled with challenges and achievements, well aware that the road to the NCAA championship is fraught with obstacles.
As the tournament progresses, fans will keep a watchful eye on UCLA’s performance and Utah State’s response to this defining moment in their season. The Bruins, with their track record and talent, are among the favored to make a significant run in this year's tournament.
