LOS ANGELES -- UCLA came out with a defensive intensity early that carried them throughout the whole game. Starter Dylan Andrews did not play, he's dealing with a groin injury. Starting in his place was Senior Lazar Stefanovic, who has the reputation of being a good three point shooter. Lazar, who shot 38% from three last year, immediately knocked two threes down early to get the team going. He was tied for the lead in scoring along with Eric Dailey Jr.
The defense felt suffocating at times. Boston University had stretches where it seemed difficult to make effective passes. Kobe Johnson, who is easily one of the best perimeter defenders in the country gave the Terriers fits all night. William Kyle III was a bright spot off the bench with his hustle and activity. In one sequence, Kyle III pinned a shot off the backboard, came down the court and secured a put back dunk that seemed to all but seal the game away.
Although the bruins struggled with turnovers early, they did a better job protecting the ball in the second half. The same can not be said for the Terriers who turned the ball over 27 times. This marks the second consecutive game that the bruins have forced their opponent to commit over 20 turnovers. That hasn't happened since the 2008-2009 season.
"We dove on the floor more tonight, then any scrimmage game or exhibition game combined" Cronin said
For UCLA, this was a much needed bounce back game coming off the loss to New Mexico.
UCLA plays Lehigh on Friday November 15th, at Pauley Pavilion.
