The top-ranked UCLA Bruins remained undefeated on Wednesday after a wire-to-wire victory over No. 24 Michigan, 86-70.
Bruins on
— NCAA March Madness (@MarchMadnessWBB) January 2, 2025
No. 1 UCLA get the WIN at home, over No. 24 Michigan, 86-70!#NCAAWBB x @UCLAWBB pic.twitter.com/sDy7TpqTTU
Although the Bruins only held a 17-15 lead going into the second quarter, they pulled away to a 40-29 halftime advantage and led by as much as 20 points.
Kiki Rice went backdoor and converted on this layup attempt to extend UCLA's lead to 38-27 with 1:15 remaining in the first half.
This connection >>>> @AngelaDugalic @kiki_rice0 #NCAAWBB x BTN / @UCLAWBB pic.twitter.com/kYyctdNBvi
— NCAA March Madness (@MarchMadnessWBB) January 1, 2025
UCLA's hot shooting (55.6%) carried it throughout the game, as it has all season long. According to NCAA.com, UCLA shoots 49.59%, which is fifth in the country.
Lauren Betts (13 points, 10 rebounds) and Rice (16 points, 10 assists) both had a double-double in the win. Betts now has eight double-doubles this season while Rice accomplished the feat for the first time this season.
While the Bruins had five players in double figures, their defense made it difficult on Michigan. The Wolverines were held to just 27-for-66 (40.9%) and 5-for-19 (26.3%). Aside from freshman Syla Sword's career-high 30 points, scoring was hard to come by for Michigan.
UCLA (14-0, 3-0 Big Ten) has three ranked wins this season, including a 77-62 upset win over then-No. 1 South Carolina. With Wednesday's win over Michigan, the Bruins continue to add to their impressive resume with efficient shooting.
If the Bruins maintain their efficiency the rest of the way, it is going to be difficult to take them down.
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