In a closely contested conference game, the Stanford Cardinal edged out the UCLA Bruins with a final score of 59-53. The Cardinal now hold their record steady while the Bruins face another setback, adjusting their season tally.

Jan 3, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; UCLA guard Sebastian Mack (12) drives the ball as Stanford Cardinal forward Brandon Angel (23) and Stanford Cardinal guard Kanaan Carlyle (3) defend during the second half at Pauley Pavilion presented by Wescom. Mandatory Credit: Yannick Peterhans-USA TODAY Sports

The match at Pauley Pavilion was not without its share of drama and intense moments. The home team, UCLA Bruins, started strong with an initial half lead but could not maintain their momentum into the second half. Despite out-rebounding Stanford with 36 boards to their 30 and securing more offensive rebounds at eight each, the Bruins struggled to convert these opportunities into points.

UCLA's defensive efforts were notable as they tallied four blocks and matched Stanford's seven steals. However, this defensive prowess was overshadowed by their offensive challenges; they shot only 33 percent from the field compared to Stanford's slightly better rate of 36 percent. From beyond the arc, UCLA managed just three successful attempts from thirteen for a low three-point shooting percentage of 23 percent.

Jan 3, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; UCLA guard Sebastian Mack (12) drives the ball as Stanford Cardinal guard Kanaan Carlyle (3) defends during the second half at Pauley Pavilion presented by Wescom. Mandatory Credit: Yannick Peterhans-USA TODAY Sports

One area where both teams excelled was free throw accuracy; UCLA made an impressive 80 percent of their shots from the line while Stanford posted an even higher rate at 81 percent. Unfortunately for UCLA fans, free throws alone were not enough to secure victory.

The Cardinal capitalized on turnovers scoring 16 points off turnovers against UCLA's similar effort which resulted in fifteen points. Additionally, despite having fewer assists overall (12 for Stanford versus six for UCLA), Stanford had a better assist-to-turnover ratio at approximately one compared to less than half for the Bruins.

Jan 3, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; UCLA forward Adam Bona (3) blocks a shot by Stanford Cardinal forward James Keefe (22) during the second half at Pauley Pavilion presented by Wescom. Mandatory Credit: Yannick Peterhans-USA TODAY Sports

A key factor in this encounter was personal fouls; while both teams played aggressively on defense, it was ultimately costly for UCLA who committed twenty-two personal fouls leading to one player being fouled out of the game.

Looking ahead after this tough loss, fans can catch the next game featuring their beloved team as they host California Golden Bears at Pauley Pavilion in Los Angeles on January 6th at 7:00 PM local time. This upcoming event will be broadcasted live on Pac-12 Network for supporters unable to attend in person.

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