UCLA's women's basketball team made a significant statement by defeating No. 1 South Carolina with a 77-62 victory on Sunday. The win marked the first time in school history that UCLA had beaten a top-ranked team, breaking a streak of 0-20 in such games. Coach Cori Close emphasized the importance of maintaining perspective despite the early success, echoing the philosophy of legendary coach John Wooden, who led the men's team to 10 national championships.
The Bruins' dominant performance was witnessed by a crowd of 13,659 at Pauley Pavilion, with former players and champions in attendance to support the current team. Led by star center Lauren Betts and standout performances from players like Londynn Jones and Elina Aarnisalo, UCLA showcased a balanced offense and suffocating defense that kept South Carolina at bay throughout the game.
Close's focus on sustained excellence and continuous improvement was evident in her post-game remarks, challenging her team to aspire for more than just one big win in November. The victory over South Carolina, coupled with other notable matchups in Los Angeles over the weekend, highlighted the competitive landscape of women's college basketball.
The Bruins' depth and resilience were on full display, with contributions from both seasoned players and newcomers making an impact on the court. Freshman Aarnisalo, in particular, stood out for her composure and skill, earning praise from teammates and opponents alike.
As UCLA looks to build on this early success and climb higher in the rankings, the team's commitment to Wooden's legacy of excellence and team-first mentality serves as a guiding principle. With a blend of experience and emerging talent, the Bruins are poised to make a strong push for their own championship banner to hang alongside those of the storied men's program.
