The UCLA Bruins did not enter their final season in the PAC-12 with a wave of momentum, but maybe that worked to the Bruins’ advantage. After a first half of uninspiring basketball, the Bruins finally turned things around and put together an excellent half of basketball keyed by strong defense, ultimately defeating Oregon State 69-62.
The key to the game was the play of Adem Bona, specifically the fact that he was able to evade foul trouble and play 33 minutes. He wasn’t great on offense, but the fact that he was able to stay on the floor meant that he was able to hunt for blocks in the second half, which helped turn the tide. The Bruins went on a huge run in the second half keyed by their defense, with the offense feeding off the defense en route to finding the most success they’ve seen in a month.
For as uneven as his play has been all season, this game served as a reminder that Bona may be one of the most important pieces defensively on the team. His ability to clean up messes on the perimeter is unmatched by the other bigs on the roster, and he has the athleticism to switch on screens that Kenneth Nwuba and Aday Mara do not possess. The commentators on the PAC-12 Network feed actually made a great point that Bona struggled early last season as well before locking in during PAC-12 play, so maybe we’re seeing a return to form for Bona.
Outside of him, UCLA got contributions throughout the lineup. I thought Dylan Andrews has a very good game offensively, hitting a few big outside shots while playing clean basketball (four assists compared to a single turnover). Lazar Stefanovic had an unspectacular but solid game, which considering his play over the last few weeks is a huge improvement. Will McClendon hit a series of shots and continues to look much more confident on the offensive end. Brandon Williams continued his exceptional play from last Friday and very much looks like a key cog going forward. Interestingly enough, the Bruins managed to get a solid win despite not getting much from Sebastian Mack, mostly because he struggled drawing fouls in this game.
Maybe the most important stat from this game is simply: one. Considering how the past few weeks have gone for UCLA basketball, getting a win in the first PAC-12 matchup of the season feels pretty big, and should calm the fanbase down going forward. It’s a small step, but it’s still a step forward.
Go Bruins!
Thanks again for supporting The Mighty Bruin. Your paid subscriptions make this site possible. Questions, comments, story ideas, angry missives and more can be sent to @TheMightyBruin on Twitter.
Well, this one part of the fan base is calmed down. Thinking of this like one would regard an NFL season with their exhibition games or MLB's Spring Training.
Buy additionally, I would like to say that I really do appreciate TMB and the efforts of Dimitri and Joe! The quality of writing and attention to detail is FAR BETTER than would would receive from the L. A. Times or the O. C . Ragister [sic] whose beat writers must divide their time among several sports/teams. Keep it up, guys, we here in the TMB "family" really love your work!
I love B Wills toughness and shot. Berke could be great as he has the potential to be a smooth shooter.
Mack and Dylan can be dynamic if they continue to pass and attack effectively.
If the team can continue to play in rhythm like the second half, I think Bona can be a force - and yes, he needs to play within himself and make wise decisions.
The second half reignited my hope for this team and our chances against O on Sat.
why was the first half such a mess as usual? This team continuing to get off to slow starts and trying to make second half adjustments should not be the norm
Well, this one part of the fan base is calmed down. Thinking of this like one would regard an NFL season with their exhibition games or MLB's Spring Training.
Buy additionally, I would like to say that I really do appreciate TMB and the efforts of Dimitri and Joe! The quality of writing and attention to detail is FAR BETTER than would would receive from the L. A. Times or the O. C . Ragister [sic] whose beat writers must divide their time among several sports/teams. Keep it up, guys, we here in the TMB "family" really love your work!
I am just going to ditto everything War Planner said, as he is ever eloquent and on point 💙💛
Wishing you all a joyous, beautiful and peaceful New Year and sending much love 💙💛💙💛
Right on WarPlanner and thanks Dmitri and Joe and all the other that make this such a pleasant place to share the game with!
Peyton Watson 20 points last night.
I sure hope Bona has learned some self-control! We don't have enough offense to make up for no defense.
I love B Wills toughness and shot. Berke could be great as he has the potential to be a smooth shooter.
Mack and Dylan can be dynamic if they continue to pass and attack effectively.
If the team can continue to play in rhythm like the second half, I think Bona can be a force - and yes, he needs to play within himself and make wise decisions.
The second half reignited my hope for this team and our chances against O on Sat.
Agree, Tamara we need to keep that second half switch 'on'!
Good win, for sure.
why was the first half such a mess as usual? This team continuing to get off to slow starts and trying to make second half adjustments should not be the norm
..as long as they make those adjustments, mate, as long as..