UCLA men’s basketball, led by Coach Mick Cronin, showcased its defensive dominance with an 88-43 victory over Southern Utah at Pauley Pavilion on Nov. 26. The Bruins extended their win streak to five, with defense driving the offense. They forced 30 turnovers, including 15 steals and four blocks, holding Southern Utah to just 43 points. Junior guard Skyy Clark and freshman Trent Perry were defensive standouts, combining for six steals, 14 rebounds, and 13 points. Sophomore guard Sebastian Mack also contributed eight points and two steals in limited minutes.
Senior guard Lazar Stefanovic emerged as the game’s X-factor, scoring a team-high 19 points on 66.7% shooting, along with five rebounds. Despite competing for minutes in a deep lineup, Stefanovic’s readiness and efficiency off the bench bolstered the Bruins. Bench players contributed 50 points, highlighting the team’s depth, while starters, including junior forward Tyler Bilodeau, struggled offensively.
Although dominant defensively, UCLA’s shooting woes from beyond the arc persisted, hitting just 30% from three-point range, mirroring last season’s challenges. As the Bruins prepare for Big Ten conference play and matchups against top-ranked teams, Cronin emphasized readiness for the demanding December schedule, which includes games against Washington, Oregon, Arizona, North Carolina, and Gonzaga.
UCLA Cheer energize the crowd at Pauley Pavilion during a Bruins basketball game, showcasing school spirit with dynamic routines and vibrant colors. Photographed by Ryan Zhang/BruinLife
Dylan Andrews (#2) drives to the basket with determination, challenging Southern Utah’s defense. Photographed by Ryan Zhang/BruinLife
Tyler Bilodeau rises for a contested jumper against Southern Utah’s defense during a hard-fought game at Pauley Pavilion. Photographed by Ryan Zhang/BruinLife
Photographed by Ryan Zhang/BruinLife
UCLA fans fill Pauley Pavilion with energy and excitement, cheering on the Bruins during their dominant performance against Southern Utah. Photographed by Ryan Zhang/BruinLife
Photographed by Ryan Zhang/BruinLife
Photographed by Ryan Zhang/BruinLife
Photographed by Ryan Zhang/BruinLife
UCLA’s defense tightens up as two Bruins pressure Southern Utah’s guard, forcing a turnover during an intense momen. Photographed by Ryan Zhang/BruinLife
UCLA’s Dominick Harris (#8) locks in on defense, applying pressure to Southern Utah’s ball handler. Photographed by Ryan Zhang/BruinLife
Trent Perry (#1) plays tight defense against Southern Utah’s Lorenzo Abellar (#4) as he drives to the basket during an intense matchup. Photographed by Ryan Zhang/BruinLife
