Opinion
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UCLA Bruins Set to Confront California Baptist Lancers in a Showdown at Pauley Pavilion

As the UCLA Bruins prepare to host the California Baptist Lancers at Pauley Pavilion, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be an electrifying encounter. The Bruins, coming off a series of challenging games, are looking to assert their dominance on their home court.


Feb 20, 2023; Stanford, California, USA;  UCLA Bruins guard Kiki Rice (1) takes a free-throw against the Stanford Cardinal during the second half at Maples Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-USA TODAY Sports

In their last outing on March 9 against the USC Trojans, the Bruins scored 70 points but fell short in double overtime. Despite this setback, there were positive takeaways from that game. The team showed resilience and an ability to score under pressure, putting up 23 points in the second quarter and fighting hard through two overtimes. However, they will need to address their three-point shooting which was just at 17 percent.


The Bruins' performance against Utah Utes on March 8 was more convincing with a victory of 67-57. Their field goal percentage stood out at an impressive 48 percent and they excelled beyond the arc hitting 47 percent of their three-point attempts. This level of accuracy from distance could be a key factor against CBU.


Looking further back to March 3 versus Arizona Wildcats, UCLA's defense was particularly noteworthy as they held Arizona to only 41 points with a commanding field goal defense allowing just a mere 28 percent shooting by Arizona.


The upcoming game presents an opportunity for UCLA's offense led by dynamic scorers and playmakers who have shown they can rack up points both inside the paint and from long range when they find their rhythm. Defensively, UCLA has demonstrated that it can impose its will on opponents – something that will undoubtedly unsettle CBU's offensive strategies.


On the other side of the court stands California Baptist Lancers who should not be underestimated despite being visitors. They bring their own set of skills and strategies that could challenge UCLA if taken lightly.


With all eyes set on March 23rd at Pauley Pavilion in Los Angeles where tip-off is scheduled for 6:30 PM PT; fans are eager to see if UCLA can capitalize on its home-court advantage and rebound from previous setbacks with a strong showing against CBU. Those unable to attend can catch all the action live on ESPN2 as these two teams battle it out in what promises to be another thrilling chapter in women's basketball this season.

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