LOGAN, Utah — The excitement is palpable as Utah State University (USU) prepares for its upcoming NCAA Tournament match against the storied UCLA Bruins. This matchup, poised to tip off at 7:25 PM MDT on Thursday, March 20, will take place at the iconic Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky. It marks another significant moment for the Aggies, who are competing as the 10th seed after securing their place for the third consecutive year.
Utah State has had its share of ups and downs leading to this moment. This season, the Aggies have established themselves as formidable contenders, boasting a record of 26 wins and 7 losses. Their victory against the eighth-seeded TCU last year (88-72) was not only their first win since 2001 but also the largest victory margin they’ve ever registered at the NCAA Tournament.
"I like the matchup. This is the time we play for. Not only me, but the rest of the team is just excited to go out to Lexington and play some hoops,” said graduate guard Ian Martinez, who has been instrumental to Utah State throughout the season.
For the 2024-2025 season, USU is led by head coach Jerrod Calhoun, who expressed enthusiasm about the matchup against UCLA, referring to them as "probably the most storied basketball program in the history of college basketball." He has followed the Bruins throughout the season as they rebounded from last year's disappointment.
Calhoun's perspective is amplified by his long-standing professional relationship with UCLA's head coach, Mick Cronin. “I’ve watched them play eight or nine times. They’ve had some ups and downs, but they are battle tested, and I respect their physical play,” Calhoun stated. He noted how their contrasting play styles—USU’s goal of injecting speed and energy against UCLA’s emphasis on defense—will be central to the game.
Utah State's playing style is dynamic, characterized by quick transitions and aggressive shooting—averaging 80.9 points per game. Led by junior guard Mason Falslev, who is one of only two players this season to boast over 77 steals and at least 205 rebounds, the Aggies aim to push their opponent and create scoring opportunities. Falslev shared, "I’ve been incredibly blessed, third time going to the NCAA Tournament. I’m excited to show the world what we can do.”
USU's record speaks volumes, with the team currently ranked 30th nationally for scoring offense and ninth for total assists. This season, they scored above 70 points, building their confidence, as they’ve recorded significant victories against formidable opponents like Iowa and North Texas. Calhoun emphasized, “We need to try and speed them up and force tempo, get this game moving. That’s how we want to play anyway.”
Turning to UCLA, the Bruins garnered the seventh seed with their own accomplishments this season, holding impressive records against tough teams. Despite going through challenging moments—including finishing the previous season with 16-17—UCLA's recent traction stands out. They achieved nine consecutive victories after losing to New Mexico early this season, indicating substantial improvement.
One of UCLA's strengths is its defensive strategy, averaging 65.7 points allowed per game. Their physicality is evident, and with players like Kobe Johnson and Tyler Bilodeau adding scoring depth, the Bruins are poised to be aggressive challengers. Johnson leads their rebounding efforts and has consistently contributed during both conference play and tough matchups.
The matchup promises to be compelling, with contrasting styles playing out before fans: Utah State's high-octane offense versus UCLA’s effective defense. It is expected to draw attention from not just fans of both teams, but also national audiences. Calhoun understands the magnitude of the moment, noting, “This is the greatest tournament on earth, the next three weeks. Players, coaches, and fans will go on this adventure together.”
Looking back to their past competitions, this will be the first time since the 2001 tournament the two teams have met, where the Aggies were defeated 75-50. With memories of previous tournaments still fresh, the Aggies team family dynamic and shared experiences will contribute to their mindset heading back to the dance.
With the stakes high and spirits high, both teams enter the tournament full of anticipation. The matchup against UCLA not only pits two prominent teams against one another, but it symbolizes the continued evolution of UT's basketball program. Celebrations were already felt during the Selection Sunday watch party at Maverik Stadium, where players envisioned this moment as childlike dreams come true. Calhoun solidified this sentiment, saying, "There is going to be a winner and a loser; we have nothing to lose, so let it rip man.”
Now team members focus on preparations as they travel to Lexington, seeking to capitalize on the moment they've strived for all season long. The dream of advancing and potentially facing second-seeded Tennessee or 15-seeded Wofford adds excitement to their quest. The Aggies are gearing up to put on their best performance and will do what they do best—play free, share the ball, and push the tempo.
Utah State’s first-round matchup against UCLA is slated for March 20, and basketball fans across the nation will be watching as these two squads battle for their place in the tournament's next stage.
