UCLA overcame a slow start to defeat California Baptist 96-43 in the first round of the NCAA tournament. The Bruins’ dominant third quarter propelled them to victory. Freshman Sienna Betts had her first career double-double.
Bruins Overcome First-Half Concerns
Leading by 10 points at halftime against a No. 16 seed caused concern for UCLA. The Bruins responded with a dominant 31-4 third quarter. This secured their first-round NCAA tournament win.
Angela Dugalic said the team took accountability in the locker room before the coaches arrived. She noted that teammates, including Sienna Betts, spoke up about what needed to be fixed.
Double-Double for Sienna Betts
UCLA (32-1) defeated California Baptist 96-43 at Pauley Pavilion. Senior Lauren Betts earned a double-double with 22 points and 10 rebounds. Her sister, freshman Sienna Betts, recorded her first career double-double with 10 points and 12 rebounds.
California Baptist’s Perspective
California Baptist (23-11) had the eighth-worst NET ranking of any NCAA tournament team. Lancers coach Jarrod Olson said that UCLA is the best team in the country. He added that his team gave them all they could handle for 20 minutes.
UCLA Advances in NCAA Tournament
UCLA will advance to Monday’s second-round contest against No. 8 seed Oklahoma State (24-9) for a spot in the Sweet 16. The Bruins are currently on a 26-game winning streak. Their most recent loss was in November against Texas.
Charlisse Leger-Walker acknowledged the need for more aggression from the start. She mentioned mental lapses regarding the scout and game plan. She added that California Baptist hit a lot of three-pointers.
UCLA’s size overwhelmed California Baptist, whose tallest player is 6-foot-3 Emma Johansson.
Kiki Rice is projected to go from a WNBA backup point guard to a potential top-five pick after a transformative senior season.
A No. 16 seed has not upset a No. 1 seed in the women’s NCAA tournament since 1998.