UCLA Basketball: Bruins Aware They're Turning A Corner At Ends Of Games

UCLA basketball got another huge win this past Thursday, taking down Oregon State 71-63. The Bruins now have won four out of their past five games and are continuing to look up.

A big part of UCLA's recent turnaround has been their ability to close out games. While in their one loss over the past five games to Arizona the Bruins blew a 17-point lead, the Bruins have managed to close out each of their four other wins during this span. 

After the game, Bruins head coach Mick Cronin explained the importance of closing out these wins, particularly with how close the margin of victory is in college football. 

“It was a long time ago, but in Power-5 leagues, the average margin of victory – give or take some percentages – is around six points a game," Cronin said after the game. "So, you got to learn to win grinders in conference play. So, to your point, we closed it out late. Will [McClendon] hit a big shot. We got the ball to Adem [Bona]. We got him fouled a couple times. Will’s three was because Adem touched the ball, so we go the ball where it needed to go late in the game. We got some stops and some rebounds."

via UCLA Communications.

Cronin was also complimentary of opposing Oregon State Beavers coach Wayne Tinkle after defeating them.

"Wayne [Tinkle] does a great job," Cronin added. "Coaches are rated based on fame, and the interesting thing is players decide how good your coaching is. It’s just reality, you know. It’s just reality. Phil Jackson – when Michael [Jordan] retired versus when he came back. And I think Phil Jackson is a genius. You just go down the line, man. Players determine it. Wayne Tinkle is a great coach. He really is. He’s got a good young team, so I’m happy with our win.” 

via UCLA Communications.

Cronin and the Bruins will play again Saturday versus Oregon.