In their first appearance at the WBCA Challenge in Las Vegas, No. 3 UCLA women’s basketball showed exactly why they remain near the top of the national rankings. The Bruins (4-0) defeated No. 11 North Carolina (2-1) 78-60 on Thursday night, using a dominant second half to stay unbeaten.
Senior center Lauren Betts once again led the way, finishing with 20 points and 10 rebounds in another efficient performance. Senior guard Kiki Rice followed with 15 points and 10 rebounds, all of her scoring coming after halftime, while graduate forward Angela Dugalić added 14 points and continued her sharp shooting from earlier in the week.
North Carolina made its presence felt early. Led by former Bruin Elina Aarnisalo, the Tar Heels ended the opening quarter on a 10-0 run and held a 17-12 advantage. Aarnisalo scored eight of her 13 points in that first stretch, giving UNC a burst of momentum.
UCLA responded in the second quarter. A quick 8-0 run highlighted by baskets from Betts and Gabriela Jaquez helped the Bruins regain control. Graduate transfer Charlisse Leger-Walker added poise on both ends, finishing with eight points and five assists. Her layup just before halftime sent UCLA into halftime up 35-34.
The third quarter proved to be the turning point. The Bruins connected on nine straight field goals during a 10-0 run, breaking the game open and taking a 58-46 lead into the fourth. Rice attacked the basket with confidence, while Betts anchored the defense with eight defensive rebounds and two blocks.
UCLA finished shooting 52.5% from the field, out-rebounded Carolina 46-30, and maintained composure despite 14 turnovers. The Tar Heels saw three players in double figures: Aarnisalo, Indya Nivar and Ciera Toomey, but managed just 30 percent shooting in the second half.
The win was UCLA’s second straight over a ranked opponent and they will stay in Las Vegas for their next matchup, facing USF on Saturday.
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Featured Image via BruinLife Archives
