LAS VEGAS -- UCLA had six incoming transfers come in this season, many of which have a lot of high major experience. The Bruins faced their first major test of the season in the New Mexico Lobos. The Lobos are coming off a season in which they won the Mountain West Tournament and secured an NCAA tournament bid. The Bruins struggled with turnovers for the entire game. They ended the game with a total of 21 turnovers.
The Bruins lacked any sort of continuity on the offensive end. The lone bright spot was Tyler Bilodeau, the Oregon State transfer poured in 23 points and secured 15 rebounds. Usc transfer Kobe Johnson’s foul trouble early was part of what created an early lead for the Lobos. The Bruins only shot 21.7% from three on 5/21 shooting.
The Bruins made a late push with under ten minutes led by great defense. New Mexico’s star player and local Riverside product Donovan Dent got hurt on an inbounding play. This created a sense of urgency on the defensive end, Ucla started to full court press knowing the Lobos primary ball handler was hurt. Dent entered back in the game with the Lobos up 9 to the roar of the Lobos crowd. Dent instantly made an impact driving down the lane and extending the lead back out with a runner off the glass to push the lead to 11.
“Three things you gotta do: defend, rebound and take care of the ball” Cronin said “We didn’t defend, we didn’t take care of the ball” said Cronin.
For Junior guard Dylan Andrews, it was an uncharacteristic game turning the ball over a total of six times. This game can prove to be a good teaching moment for coach Cronin and his new roster as competition gets tougher later in the year.
The Bruins face Boston University next on November 11th, at Pauley Pavilion.
