UCLA Bruins vs Arizona Wildcats Game Preview

The Bruins and Wildcats are matching up for the 95th time the historic series that dates back to 1923. The last matchup took place around the same time last season, on Dec. 14, 2024, where UCLA came out with a 57-54 win in Phoenix. Tyler Bilodeau led the way with 17 points in the win.

UCLA has won seven of the last 13 matchups and holds an all-time record of 64-50 over the Wildcats. The Bruins are playing their second game in the Intuit Dome's history. They defeated Gonzaga in the arena last season.

How To Watch

What: (15) UCLA Bruins vs. (5) Arizona Wildcats
When: Friday, Nov. 14
Time: 7:00 p.m. (PT)
Where: Intuit Dome (Inglewood, California)
TV: Peacock
TV Announcers: Brandon Gaudin (play-by-play), Robbie Hummel (analyst), Elise Woodward (sideline)
Radio: AM 790 (KABC), SiriusXM Ch. 85
Radio Announcers: Josh Lewin (play-by-play), Tracy Murray (analyst)

UCLA Impact Players

1. Donovan Dent, PG

This one is a given. Dent is the sole reason UCLA's ceiling is so high this year.

The star transfer point guard was precautionarily held out of last game with a muscle strain, but coach Mick Cronin said he'll be good to go against Arizona.

Dent is the table setter for UCLA's offense and and brings a steady, competitive presence on defense. Against Arizona's staunch frontcourt, Dent will be integral in assuring the Bruins' offense is potent all game.

2. Xavier Booker, C

Booker was UCLA's second-biggest transfer acquisition but has been equally as important to the Bruins' success early this season.

His paint presence is what he's known for, posting five blocks against Pepperdine, but it has been his offense, more specifically his paint scoring, that has stood out the most.

Cronin praised Booker's post scoring ability early this season an stated that getting him a post touch almost guarantees UCLA a bucket. Arizona's backcourt is just as good as its frontcourt, and Booker will be a huge piece in the Bruins' effort to compete on both sides of the ball.

3. Tyler Bilodeau, PF

If Dent is the crafty, offensive engine and Booker is the Bruins' last line of defense, then Bilodeau is the bridge that brings it all together.

The veteran forward had a great 17-point outing against these Wildcats in UCLA's 57-54 win in Phoenix last season, and his scoring prowess and defensive identity are going to be even more integral this year.

With or without Dent, Bilodeau has remained UCLA's most consistent player. He is averaging 16.3 points and 4.6 rebounds per game on 51.4% from the field.