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UCLA Bruins Edge Out Purdue Boilermakers with Dent's Dazzling Display

The UCLA Bruins secured a narrow victory over the Purdue Boilermakers with a final score of 69-67. This win brings the Bruins to a record of 1-0, while the Boilermakers stand at 0-1. The game was held at Pauley Pavilion in Los Angeles, where an enthusiastic crowd witnessed an intense battle between these two teams.


Jan 20, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA;  UCLA Bruins guard Eric Dailey Jr. (3) and Purdue Boilermakers guard Omer Mayer (17) battle for a rebound in the first half at Pauley Pavilion presented by Wescom Financial. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

First Half


The first half saw both teams locked in a tight contest, each scoring 32 points. The Bruins showcased their offensive prowess with Donovan Dent leading the charge. Dent's precision shooting and playmaking abilities were on full display as he contributed significantly to his team's performance. The Westwood Warriors capitalized on their fast break opportunities, adding crucial points that kept them neck-and-neck with the Boilers.


Second Half


In the second half, UCLA managed to pull ahead slightly by outscoring Purdue 37-35. Key defensive plays by Eric Freeny and Tyler Bilodeau helped maintain this slim lead for the home team. Despite facing pressure from Purdue’s relentless offense led by Fletcher Loyer, who was instrumental for his team throughout the game, UCLA's defense stood firm.


Jan 20, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA;  Purdue Boilermakers guard Braden Smith (3) drives to the basket in the second half against the UCLA Bruins at Pauley Pavilion presented by Wescom Financial. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Dent continued his stellar performance into this period as well, finishing with impressive stats that included 23 points and 13 assists—an effort that proved vital in securing victory for his team.


Post-game Reflections


After such an intense match-up between these two formidable teams, fans were treated to some game-changing plays during this UCLA Bruins vs Purdue Boilermakers encounter. In post-game thoughts from UCLA Bruins players and staff alike expressed satisfaction over their hard-fought win against one of college basketball’s top-ranked squads.


Jan 20, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA;  UCLA Bruins forward Tyler Bilodeau (34) celebrates after a 3-point basket in the final seconds of the game against the Purdue Boilermakers at Pauley Pavilion presented by Wescom Financial. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Looking ahead: The next challenge awaits when they face Northwestern Wildcats at Pauley Pavilion on January 24th at 6:00 PM EDT; fans can catch all action live via Fox Sports One broadcast network coverage!


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