Sparks shift swiftly from training camp to preseason

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April 25, 2026

DDC01920 — Photo by Rashad Griffin / fi360 News

San Diego, CA- LA Sparks traveled to San Diego to host their team’s weekly training camp as well as their preseason game opener on Saturday at Viejas Arena against Nigeria National team, for a lopsided victory, 89-63, led by one of seven returners and San Diego native, Kelsey Plum’s 22 points.

Sparks open on a 8-0 run with back-to-back triples from a new left-handed starting backcourt duo, Ariel Atkins and Kelsey Plum, after last season left-handed combination of Odyssey Sims and Plum faded out as Sims left the team midseason to join Indiana Fever.

“It’s process over outcome at this point in the season, “Head Coach Lynne Roberts said to open the postgame press conference.

Sparks early game action from deep followed by a delayed transition midrange bucket by Atkins forced Nigeria to call an early timeout with less than two minutes ran off the game clock.

“I think Ariel is an unbelievable fit for us,” Roberts said. “she’s just efficient and smooth and all the things.”

Sparks offensive dominance continued throughout the game as they held the lead the entire game while their defensive tenacity mirrored a regular season game rather than an exhibition global competition setup to expand a growing WNBA fanbase as well as league partnerships.

“I wanted to you know obviously see these pieces and games no matter what the scoreboard says,” Coach Roberts said.

D’Tigress finally got on the scoreboard midway through the first cutting off the Sparks largest run in the first to 10, 12-2.

After hitting both free throws, a momentum shifts temporarily occurred for Nigeria before LA answered with a 8-2 run after another back-to-back triples knocked down by Atkins and Plum before ending the first quarter, 27-17.

Coach Lynne Roberts played most of her 10 new additions on the roster by halftime, 44-29, showing team’s depth inside and outside with multiple lineups plus the team’s overall defense improvements without subtracting from her identity as one of the highest offensive rating style head coach in the league.

“…I got the top guys some on floor game chemistry playing together which I think you saw and then play you know the other guys as much as we can just to get them playing with other people,” coach Roberts said.

While Plum and some of the other starters played half of the 40-minute game, their top draft pick, TaNiya Latson, got to experience little over twenty minutes of action with both a veteran lineup and newcomer lineup.

“In the second half, I tried to play TaNiya with the first group a little more to see how she did out there with those guys. I was pleased with how it was and I think with the new players that we’ve added, the vets, I think everyone can see the fit,” coach Roberts said.

The newcomer lineup is where Latson seemed to struggle a bit as lead guard earlier in the game while Sparks second draft pick this season, Chance Gray, seized an opportunity to showcase her offensive range along with being a two-way player as she demonstrated intense ball pressure on the defensive end.

Later in the game, there was more synergy between Gray and Latson as well as Latson and others to make a late game run and put the Sparks up, 84-53.

“We have a lot of talent and I think preseason is for building chemistry and to figure out how to put that stuff together,” Plum said. “I know TaNiya was like KP I’ve never played one, and I’m like, “Welcome to the pros, you know, you just kind of you kind of roll with it…the best thing about coach’s offense, it’s very free flowing. You can be in any spot.”

Nigeria appeared to find a little rhythm on offense after successfully challenging an offensive foul that instead was reversed into a defensive foul on Sania Feagin.

However, the Sparks “spidey” senses on defense did not let this rhythm form into a beat long enough before putting this game away, 89-60, with Nigerian scoring only one more basket after setting up a play during their timeout with 1:16 remaining in the game.

Nigeria would run out final minutes of the game clock in route to mid-court where players from both teams met up on the floor whom were former college teammates or overseas now reuniting to culminate this special occasion for their teams first matchup in the second WNBA game ever played in San Diego.

Next up LA travels to Portland to play the new WNBA expansion team with a mini reunion between the team and their former second draft pick, Sarah Ashlee Barker.

TJ Harden on the doorstep of the NFL

By

Jevone Moore

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April 22, 2026

_RM51015 — Harden scores a touchdown at the Holiday Bowl. (Photo by Jevone Moore)

INGLEWOOD, Ca. – For TJ Harden, the road to the NFL Draft has been anything but linear. It has been defined by patience, persistence and purpose. A journey that began at Narbonne High School then Inglewood High School, and took shape at UCLA Bruins football and found renewed life at SMU Mustangs football.

Harden’s story is not just about rushing yards and touchdowns. It is about growth on the field, in the classroom and as a man preparing for football’s biggest leap.

TJ Harden (25) Photo by Jevone Moore / Full Image 360

“I’ve always believed my path was different for a reason,” Harden said. “Every stop taught me something I needed, not just as a player, but as a person.”

A standout at Inglewood High, Harden emerged as a powerful, downhill runner with a natural feel for the game. The Inglewood Class 2021 was loaded with talent that pushed each other to greatness. His success earned him a chance to stay close to home and compete at UCLA with Inglewood teammates Justyn Martin (QB) and Clint Stephens (DB). In Westwood is where he would experience the highs and challenges of major college football.

At UCLA, Harden showed flashes of his potential in a crowded backfield, using his vision and physicality to carve out a role. But like many collegiate athletes, his journey required adjustment, balancing opportunity, competition and development.

Harden and sister after winning the Holiday Bowl. (Photo by Jevone Moore)

Seeking a larger role and a fresh start, Harden transferred to SMU, a move that proved pivotal. With the Mustangs, he found rhythm and responsibility, becoming a more complete back while contributing in multiple facets of the offense.

“SMU gave me the chance to show everything I could do,” Harden said. “Running, blocking, catching; I wanted to prove I’m an every-down back.”

Harden gets past Edison defender in 2021. (Photo by Jevone Moore)

Coaches and teammates took notice of his versatility and maturity. Harden’s running style; equal parts patience and power; combined with improved pass protection and receiving skills, helped elevate his draft profile. But his impact extended beyond football.

“I am proud of his (TJ) of his years of determination, drive and his growth.” Said LaTonya Harden (Mom)

Harden Family on Signing Day 2021. (Photo by Jevone Moore)

Harden leaves college with two degrees, a testament to his discipline and long-term vision. Now graduate alumni from UCLA and SMU in an era where athletes often focus solely on the next level, he made education a priority.

“That’s something I’m just as proud of as anything on the field,” Harden said. “Football won’t last forever, but what you learn and earn academically stays with you.”

As the NFL Draft approaches, Harden is viewed as a reliable, high-character prospect — a back capable of fitting into multiple systems while bringing toughness and intelligence to a locker room.

Scouts point to his resilience as a defining trait. From Inglewood to UCLA to SMU, Harden adapted at every stage, never losing sight of his ultimate goal.

Harden leans forward for a extra yards against Serra. (27) (Photo by Jevone Moore)

Now, he stands on the doorstep of that goal, ready to hear his name called.

“I’m ready for whatever team believes in me,” Harden said. “They’re going to get someone who works every day, who’s been through adversity and who’s prepared for this moment.”

For Harden, the journey has already proven meaningful. The next chapter — in the NFL — is simply the continuation of a path built on perseverance, purpose and pride.

UCLA jumps on Hawaii early

By

Jevone Moore

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April 21, 2026

ROCH CHOLOWSKY HITS A HR. Photo by Juan Lainez / fi360 News

LOS ANGELES, CA — No. 1-ranked UCLA erupted for five runs in the first inning and never relinquished control, defeating Hawaii 12-7 on Tuesday night at Jackie Robinson Stadium to extend its dominant season.

The Bruins (37-3) built an early cushion and leaned on timely power hitting, including two home runs from Will Gasparino, to hold off the Rainbows (20-16) in a high-scoring, back-and-forth contest. UCLA finished with 11 hits and capitalized on early opportunities to set the tone, improving its already impressive record with another offensive showcase.

Just beats the tag at home. Photo by Juan Lainez / fi360 News

“We came out aggressive and set the tone right away,” UCLA coach John Savage said. “That first inning gave us breathing room, and even when they pushed back, our guys kept responding.”

Hawaii struck first in the opening inning, but UCLA answered emphatically in the bottom half. The Bruins sent 10 batters to the plate and scored five runs, highlighted by Gasparino’s three-run home run and RBI contributions from Dean West and Roman Martin. The early outburst put Hawaii on its heels and forced it to play from behind for the remainder of the night.

The Rainbows responded with resilience. Hawaii scored three runs in the third inning and added another in the fourth to cut into the deficit, with Kamana Nahaku and Ben Zeigler-Namoa providing key offensive sparks. Nahaku finished with three runs scored, while Zeigler-Namoa drove in three runs, including a home run.

KAMANA NAHAKU CELEBRATES AFTER HITTING A HR. Photo by Juan Lainez / fi360 News

Despite Hawaii’s efforts, UCLA continued to apply pressure. The Bruins added single runs in the third and fourth innings before extending the lead again with two runs in the fifth and two more in the sixth. Gasparino delivered again during that stretch, finishing with five RBIs on the night, while Roch Cholowsky contributed a home run and scored three times.

Mulivai Levu and Roman Martin also chipped in with RBIs as UCLA’s lineup showcased its depth, producing runs across multiple innings. The Bruins’ ability to answer each Hawaii rally proved decisive.

“I felt like every time we got close, they had an answer,” Hawaii coach Rich Hill said. “Against a lineup like that, you have to limit the damage early, and we just couldn’t do that tonight.”

Hawaii continued to fight, scoring two runs in the sixth inning to make it a 9-7 game, but the Bruins bullpen settled in from there. UCLA used nine pitchers in the contest, with Ian May (1-0) earning the win after allowing one run over two innings while stabilizing the middle frames.

JACK O’CONNOR Photo by Juan Lainez / fi360 News

Relievers Cal Randall, Zach Strickland and Justin Lee combined for three scoreless innings late to shut the door on any comeback attempt. Lee worked a clean ninth inning to secure the victory.

Hawaii finished with 12 hits but left 11 runners on base, missing several chances to close the gap. UCLA, meanwhile, took advantage of hit-by-pitches and timely hitting, scoring 12 runs despite collecting one fewer hit than the Rainbows.

The win further solidifies UCLA’s position as one of the top teams in college baseball, while Hawaii showed flashes of offensive firepower but ultimately could not overcome the Bruins’ explosive start.

Arcadia Invitational has taken over the field

By

Jevone Moore

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April 12, 2026

ARCADIA, Calif. — National-caliber relay performances and a record-breaking sprint headline defined the 2026 Arcadia Invitational, as elite high school athletes delivered standout marks across two days of competition April 10–11 at Arcadia High School Stadium.

Under the lights Saturday night, the meet’s premier events showcased some of the fastest times in the country this season, including a loaded boys 4×400-meter relay that brought the crowd to its feet in the final event of the meet. Bullis School Track and Field emerged as the top performer, clocking a winning time of 3 minutes, 9.14 seconds behind a strong quartet of Homer Elliott, Newton, and Wilson, separating themselves in a deep, national field.

Long Beach Polytechnic High School Track and Field followed with a 3:12.53 finish, while Loyola High School Track and Field secured third in 3:14.64, giving local fans a podium performance to cheer. Canyon Country (3:15.61), Wilson of Long Beach (3:16.05), Thousand Oaks (3:17.59), and Mountain View (3:26.51) rounded out a stacked final that emphasized the meet’s national depth.

“We knew this field was loaded, so it came down to execution and staying composed,” a Bullis relay runner said. “To come out on top here against this level of competition is huge for us.”

Earlier in the meet, Servite High School Track and Field electrified the stadium with a record-breaking performance in the boys 4×100-meter relay. The quartet of Jace Wells[10], Jorden Wells[10], Kamil Pelovello[10], Benjamin Harris[11] delivered near-perfect baton exchanges and elite top-end speed to set a new meet record, one of the signature moments of the weekend and a mark that places them among the fastest teams in the nation this year.

The invitational’s unique format once again separated rising talent and elite competition. Daytime sessions featured underclassmen and developing athletes, many of whom posted personal-best performances and gained valuable experience on one of the sport’s biggest high school stages. As night fell, the spotlight shifted to invitational sections, where nationally ranked athletes competed in front of packed grandstands.

Distance races under the lights added to the drama, with tightly contested finishes in the 1600 and 3200 meters. Strategic pacing and powerful closing kicks defined those events, reinforcing Arcadia’s reputation as a distance-running showcase.

An added highlight came from an Olympian Quincy Wilson competing in both the 400 meters and the 4×400 relay, delivering a smooth, commanding performance that drew one of the loudest ovations of the weekend. The appearance provided a rare opportunity for high school athletes to witness world-class execution up close.

“This meet brings together every level of the sport — from future stars to Olympians,” a meet official said. “It creates an environment where great performances are expected, and this year absolutely delivered.”

Local programs, particularly Loyola, fed off the home crowd energy, with their third-place relay finish standing out as one of the top performances among Southern California teams.

From Servite’s record-breaking speed to Bullis’ dominant 4×400 victory and a lineup filled with national contenders, the Arcadia Invitational once again proved why it remains one of the premier meets in high school track and field — a stage where emerging talent and elite performance intersect under the brightest lights.

Rafer Johnson Jackie Joyner-Kersee Invitational

By

Jennifer Moore

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April 11, 2026

_JP96599 — Photo by Jason Purisima / fi360 News

LOS ANGELES, CA — UCLA’s men’s and women’s track and field teams turned in a series of standout performances Saturday at the Rafer Johnson/Jackie Joyner-Kersee Invitational, using strong showings across sprints, distance and field events to highlight a productive day at Drake Stadium.

Competing against a deep field of collegiate athletes, the Bruins leaned on both veteran leadership and emerging talent, producing multiple event victories and top finishes as the outdoor season continues to gain momentum.

On the women’s side, UCLA’s sprinters set the tone early, delivering fast times in both the 100- and 200-meter races. The Bruins showcased depth in the short sprints, with several athletes finishing near the top of the leaderboard and posting season-best marks. That momentum carried into the relay events, where UCLA’s combinations executed clean handoffs and maintained strong pacing throughout.

In the field, the Bruins jumpers and throwers added valuable performances. UCLA athletes recorded top finishes in the horizontal jumps and posted competitive marks in the throws, reinforcing the team’s balance across disciplines. The women’s middle-distance group also contributed, with solid efforts in the 800 and 1500 meters that emphasized tactical racing and late surges.

“Our goal was to compete at a high level across every event, and I think we showed that today,” a UCLA women’s athlete said. “We’re building confidence each week, and you can see it in how we’re finishing races and supporting each other.”

The men’s team matched that intensity with a strong showing of its own, particularly in the sprints and hurdles. UCLA athletes delivered explosive starts and consistent finishes, securing top placements in tightly contested races. The hurdles group stood out with clean, efficient runs that translated into some of the day’s fastest times.

100m Hurdle Photo by Jason Purisima / fi360 News

UCLA’s field event athletes continued the trend, producing key marks in both jumping and throwing events. The Bruins’ versatility was evident, as multiple competitors reached the podium and contributed to the team’s overall success. In the distance races, UCLA runners maintained steady pacing and closed well, adding depth to the team’s performance profile.

“The emphasis right now is on execution and progress,” a UCLA men’s coach said. “We’re seeing athletes hit their marks, stay composed in competition and take steps forward as we move deeper into the season.”

Among the top performers overall at the meet were several UCLA athletes who not only claimed event wins but also posted marks that rank among the best in the region this season. Their efforts underscored UCLA’s ability to compete with some of the top programs in the country while continuing to develop across all event groups.

Named after UCLA legends Rafer Johnson and Jackie Joyner-Kersee, the invitational brought a high level of competition and energy to Drake Stadium. The Bruins responded by taking advantage of the home setting, feeding off the crowd and delivering strong finishes throughout the day.

As the outdoor season progresses, UCLA’s performance at the invitational signals a team finding its rhythm at the right time. With conference meets and postseason competition on the horizon, the Bruins will look to build on Saturday’s results and continue refining their performances.

UCLA returns to action in the coming weeks with a focus on maintaining consistency and elevating its top-end marks, aiming to carry this momentum into the heart of the season.

UCLA undone with celebration after job finished

By

Charle' Moore

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April 9, 2026

Los Angeles, CA- UCLA finished the job on Easter Sunday and are unfinished celebrating as the party goes on three days later since they won their first national women’s basketball championship in Phoenix, Arizona to return home at Pauley Pavilion arena on Wednesday evening, for their upbeat fans to join in on the fun and congratulate head coach Cori Close alongside her twelve student-athletes plus coaching staff for a job well done.

What better way to start a celebration with a grand entrance as each member of women’s basketball coaching staff and each student-athlete names were announced while being embraced with a warm, boisterous welcome by tons of Bruins fans.

Kicking off the celebration was UCLA’s Alice and Nahum Family Director of Athletics, Martin Jarmond, was followed by coach Close and former Women Bruins, Denise Curry.

“I didn’t ask to talk twice, just so you know,” Close said. “I do want to tell you just a couple of my favorite moments and say thank you just to a few other people.”

Prior to Coach Close return to the podium, she invited her six Seniors onto the stage whom each shared a few words or remarks with Gabriela Jaquez taking lead as first student speaker.

“I just wanted to say how much we really appreciate all the support you have shown all of us all season long,” Jaquez said. “We could not have done it without you. We appreciate all the energy you bring to Pauley every time we play. I want to shout out all the little kids that give us friendship bracelets, notes, cookies, and like everything.”

All-Tournament Team and Starting Guard Kiki Rice followed Jaquez in order to speak which both spending their entire 4-year college career as a Bruin opting not to transfer or enter the transfer portal despite its commonality among college sports as it was reported nearly 1200 student-athletes entered the portal this year.

“It’s been so incredible over these last 4 years. The fans, the students, everyone else who comes out to support us, the band, cheer, dance team, literally everyone who pours into making this such a special place for us to show up every single day and play and practice,” Rice said.

Starting center and MVP Lauren Betts rounded out the Seniors speaking on stage and concluded her speech preceding one last dance opportunity center court with her teammates turned dance troupe including Jaquez and Senior Guard Charlisse Leger-Walker.

“You’ll all be my sisters for life,” Rice said. “We can’t wait to come watch you guys next year. Just so excited about the future of this program, everything that’s going to come and so grateful that you guys have poured into us and have helped us get to this point and can’t wait to continue celebrating…”

UCLA celebration continues as they receive honors from a marathon of events still to come including tonight as they proceed to Inglewood for a LA Clippers home game and more congratulatory expressions from their Southern California community at the Intuit Dome.

“You know, the definition of grit is passion and perseverance over a long period of time even when you don’t see results right away,” Close said. “And I’m going to tell the people in this building, you showed a heck of a lot of grit…Let me tell you, LA cares about women’s basketball now…and you all made that happen,” Close said following an exchange of tune from crowd boos to ooohs in appreciation of Close acknowledgment of fans engagement in women’s game today.

UCLA comes back for the win on the diamond

By

Jevone Moore

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April 7, 2026

ANGEL CERVANTES FROM WARREN HS (Photo by Juan Lainez / fi360 News)

FULLERTON, Ca — No. 1-ranked UCLA used a decisive fourth inning and a strong bullpen performance to pull away from Cal State Fullerton for a 7-3 victory Tuesday night at Goodwin Field.

The Bruins (30-2) overcame an early deficit and pounded out 13 hits, highlighted by Roch Cholowsky’s two home runs and three RBIs, to secure the road win over the Titans (15-16). Jake Swenson (1-0) earned the victory in relief, tossing 1 1/3 scoreless innings with three strikeouts as UCLA’s bullpen combined to shut down Fullerton over the final six frames.

“We stayed composed after they punched back early,” UCLA coach John Savage said. “Our at-bats in the fourth inning were the difference, and the bullpen did an outstanding job finishing it.”

UCLA struck first in the opening inning when Cholowsky launched a solo home run to left field. The Bruins added another run in the second, aided by a Fullerton throwing error, to take a 2-0 lead.

Cal State Fullerton responded in the bottom of the second with a three-run rally. Cam Burdick delivered a two-run double to right-center field, and Nick Miller followed with an RBI single to give the Titans a 3-2 advantage and energize the crowd of 3,311 under clear skies.

That lead was short-lived.

UCLA broke the game open in the fourth inning, scoring three runs on five hits against Fullerton starter Landon Martin (0-2). Kasen Khansarinia tied the game with an RBI single, and Dean West followed with a two-run double to right-center to put the Bruins back in front 5-3.

From there, UCLA’s pitching staff took control. After starter Angel Cervantes allowed three runs over three innings, six Bruins relievers combined to limit Fullerton to just four hits the rest of the way while striking out 10. Swenson bridged the middle innings before Cal Randall, Jack O’Connor and Justin Lee each delivered scoreless frames to close it out.

“Our pitchers really locked in after the second inning,” Cholowsky said. “When they do that, it gives the offense confidence to keep pushing and add on.”

Fullerton had opportunities to chip away but could not capitalize. The Titans managed just one hit with runners in scoring position after their three-run second inning and were shut out over the final seven innings.

UCLA added insurance in the ninth when Cholowsky struck again, blasting a two-run homer to left-center to extend the lead to 7-3. The shortstop finished 3 for 5 with two runs scored in one of his most productive performances of the season.

Trey Gudoy also contributed with three hits and two runs scored, while West added two hits and two RBIs for the Bruins.

Despite being out-hit 13-9, Fullerton struggled to sustain offensive pressure. Burdick’s double accounted for two of the Titans’ three runs, while their pitching staff cycled through seven arms in an effort to contain UCLA’s lineup.

The win continued UCLA’s dominant start to the season, while Fullerton dropped below .500 as it looks to regroup in conference play.

UCLA unstoppable, unmatched drive denies South Carolina and declare their first NCAA championship

By

Charle' Moore

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April 5, 2026

2026 NCAA Women's Basketball Champions — UCLA Women Bruins holding up the NCAA National Championship Trophy. Photo by Jason Purisima / fi360 News

Phoenix, AZ- “Delayed, but not denied” were sentiments expressed by South Carolina head Coach Dawn Staley to describe UCLA head coach Cori Close’s coaching career journey which could also sum up her team’s drive fueled off a disheartening Final Four loss to top it off this season with a dominant championship victory, 79-51 while leaving no doubts of determination as they danced their way into history as the 126th NCAA women’s champions on a 31 game win streak at the Mortgage Matchup Center on Easter Sunday.

“Today was just a fantastic display of our resilience and the intensity that we came out with just our will to win and we knew we had a feeling like this was our time,” senior guard, All-Tourney team KiKi Rice said. “And this was our year and you know we came out there this entire weekend and we would not be denied…”

UCLA scored on the opening drive after winning the tip and dragged out this lead in dramatic fashion for the rest of the game as SC was unable to detour or deny a road to victory.

UCLA Bruins win the 2026 NCAA Women’s Basketball Championship. Photo by Jason Purisima / fi360 News

“We all just decided and I think that’s what made us so powerful this whole season when we decided we wanted to do something. We did it and I’m just so proud of coach Cori and the way that she responded as a leader from last year,” senior guard and All Tourney team Gabriela Jaques said. “I think we all responded really well…it just really started with coach Cori and the way that she wanted to make a change in our program and get us back here and get this result…I’ll always be thankful for her and her believing in me…. Yeah. Even if I’m late, I’m here.”

Lauren Betts achieved Most Outstanding Player with another career double double, 14 points and 11 boards, as immediately from the jump ball until she got subbed out the final minutes of the game, she disrupted the Gamecocks defense and offense with either demanding double and triple teams or forcing South Carolina to be distant shooters or deftly scorers.

“I think the confidence that we came out with, we just knew we were going to win because of all the prep and the work that we put in,” Betts said. “And, I think when we find a way to play together and play selflessly and just do what we do, like no one can stop us and you guys saw that.“

UCLA went up 21-10 in the first period like they were a team filled with players experienced on playing on this stage for a championship rather than actually having six seasoned seniors whom never played in a championship game yet demonstrated a hunger of a Bruin with an appetite to taste a Division I NCAA championship.

Despite SC settling down in the second quarter and finding a way to pressure UCLA that turned into a few more points on the board, the Bruins maintained connectivity to extend their lead to 15 before going into halftime with a 15-13 edge to lead by 13, 36-23.

“UCLA is a quality team with very experienced players who got a taste of being in the final four last year and you make adjustments,” coach Staley said. “You use that experience as a learning lesson and you come back sharper and you increase your chances of winning. And from last year to this year, they played determined last year, but they played more determined this year because they were so close and they’ve had the experience to do that and they took advantage of it.”

UCLA resume the second half like a reset of the first half replicating relentless energy demonstrated in their first period to start the third with even more dominance as they continued to out rebound and downright outplay South Carolina, pushing their lead up to 29 with a 25-9 edge to finish the quarter, 61-32.

The Women Bruins didn’t need a cheat code for this game as there weren’t many if any complaints of officiating or physicality and yet for a second straight game their opponents had no answer for 6’7” two-time All-American Lauren Betts whom Raven Johnson said “has improved from last season.”

“I do think that experience playing at the Final Four last year helped us just in our preparation from the spring to now,” Rice said. “We knew what to expect. We knew what it would take to win at that level. And having that experience just I feel like we were able to set our minds coming in to this tournament, coming into the final four like this is what it’s going to take to win it this time.”

UCLA Bruins Women’s Basketball team head coach Cori Close holds up the net after victory of the 2026 NCAA National Championship (Photo by Jason Purisima / fi360 News)

After coach Close desired a different display for their college women’s championship game than their low scoring semifinal game versus Texas to redeem with their teams fans’ and not have another rugby match, she led her team to double down on that desire including a delivery of a devastatingly double double, 21 points and 10 rebounds, from Jaquez, whom is the little sister of Miami Heat forward and Bruin alumni Jamie Jaquez.

“Just coming in our freshman [year] that was the plan to cut down nets. And I think we talked about it a lot,” Jaquez said. “And the fact that we got to win a national championship, wow, our senior year, like it really does mean everything. And I said it before, but I pictured this moment many times, being a national champion. And so to do it with this group, it just really means everything.”

UCLA finished with five players in double digits, including Jaquez and Betts double-doubles to go with three of the other six seniors. Gianna Kneepkens knocked down three triples in her final collegiate game for 15 points to go with a side of four dishes. Rice and Charisse Leger-Walker scored 10 apiece.

UCLA was equivalently effective on defense as their offense in this game similar to their semifinal game, putting clamps on another opponents’ top scorer after locking up Texas’ Madison Booker, this time the target was Joyce Edwards, whom had a tough day battling the Bruins “bigs,” scoring only 8 points, most of them coming when the game was out of reach though she still was able to snag 11 rebounds.

UCLA defense caused South Carolina to shoot below 30 percent from the field and just 13 percent from three while out rebounding them 49-37.

“I said, I wanted to find uncommon, courageous women that were willing to make uncommon choices that maybe possibly could yield an uncommon result. And today it did,” coach Close said.

UCLA ended the season 37-1 and will plan to start restocking soon their roster after losing half the roster with six Seniors perhaps moving on to the WNBA more than likely preparing for its upcoming draft on April 13. For now the Bruins will bask in their bountiful season as first NCAA women’s NCAA title, following their 1978 AIAW National Championship.

Bruins Make History Again, Sweep USC as Win Streak Hits 23 on Easter Sunday

By

Eric Brown Jr

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April 5, 2026

USC Trojans vs. UCLA Bruins — LOS ANGELES, CA - April 5: Roch Cholowsky #1 of the UCLA Bruins celebrates after advancing to second base in the sixth inning during a game between USC Trojans and UCLA Bruins at Jackie Robinson Stadium on April 15, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Eric Brown Jr./fi360 News)

LOS ANGELES, CA – On a sold-out Easter Sunday at Jackie Robinson Stadium, No. 1 UCLA kept
its dominant run going, finishing off a three-game sweep of No. 12 USC with a 10-4 win.
The Bruins just keep rolling. With the win, they pushed their streak to 23 straight wins, the
longest in program history plus they made it five consecutive conference series sweeps,
something the program has never done before.

West wasted no time getting UCLA on the board, leading off the first with a shot off the hitting
facility in right. USC answered in the second with a solo homer from Augie Lopez, and the game
stayed tight through the middle innings.

LOS ANGELES, CA – April 5: Phoenix Call #4 of the UCLA Bruins throws the ball in to the pitcher during the second inning during a game between USC Trojans and UCLA Bruins at Jackie Robinson Stadium on April 15, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Eric Brown Jr./fi360 News)

“Good teams win in a lot of different ways. Wins come in a lot of different shapes. And today, clearly, we didn’t play great defense for the first time in a long time. I thought we were fortunate to win.” said UCLA coach John Savage.

Power was the story all afternoon. UCLA launched five home runs, with Mulivai Levu leading the
charge. The first baseman had a big day at the plate, going 3-for-5 with two home runs, three
RBIs, and a pair of runs scored.

LOS ANGELES, CA – April 5: Landon Stump #14 of the UCLA Bruins pitches in the fifth inning during a game between USC Trojans and UCLA Bruins at Jackie Robinson Stadium on April 15, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Eric Brown Jr./fi360 News)

Top MLB Draft prospect Roch Cholowsky stayed hot as well, getting three hits and adding his
11th home run of the season. Dean West got things going early with a leadoff homer in the first,
and Will Gasparino added to the fireworks with his 13th of the year.

Payton Brennan capped off an unreal weekend, recording his third straight three-hit game plus
an epic catch early in the game. He finished the series 9-for-13 with a home run, six RBIs, and
four runs scored.

LOS ANGELES, CA – April 5: Andrew Johnson #13 of the USC Trojans pitches in the third inning during a game between USC Trojans and UCLA Bruins at Jackie Robinson Stadium on April 15, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Eric Brown Jr./fi360 News)

After some back-and-forth early, UCLA took control late. The bullpen came up big, holding USC
to just one run over the final five innings. Chris Grothues picked up his first win of the season,
while Zach Strickland closed things out in impressive fashion, striking out three over two
scoreless innings to earn his first career save.

After USC briefly took the lead in the fifth, UCLA responded immediately. Levu crushed a solo
shot to start the inning, and Gasparino followed later with a two-run homer to swing momentum
right back.

LOS ANGELES, CA – April 5: Roch Cholowsky #1 of the UCLA Bruins singles in the sixth inning during a game between USC Trojans and UCLA Bruins at Jackie Robinson Stadium on April 15, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Eric Brown Jr./fi360 News)

From there, UCLA didn’t look back. Levu added his second homer of the day in the sixth, and
Cholowsky put the game away in the eighth with a three-run blast to center.

Strickland closed out the game fore the Bruins, shutting the door in the ninth to lock up the
sweep.

“I wish the ballpark was bigger,” Savage remarked regarding the packed Jackie Robinson Stadium that saw approximately 2,000 fans for the rivalry finale.”

LOS ANGELES, CA – April 5: A detailed look at the sold out crowd during a game between USC Trojans and UCLA Bruins at Jackie Robinson Stadium on April 15, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Eric Brown Jr./fi360 News)

UCLA now looks forward to a midweek matchup at Cal State Fullerton on April 7th, 2026

UCLA understood their assignment, get payback and make history against UT

By

Charle' Moore

-

April 3, 2026

Kiki Rice #1 — UCLA's Kiki Rice attacks from center court. Photo by Jason Purisima / fi360 News

Phoenix, AZ- UCLA gave a championship clamp against UT leading scorer enroute to their first championship game in NCAA history while continuing their 30-game win streak as Senior Center Lauren Betts racked up another career double double, 16 points and 11 rebounds, on Friday night at Mortgage Matchup Center to make up and avenge her team’s only loss of the season in a close low-scoring victory, 51-44.

“We always say the tougher, more together team wins,” Coach Cori Close said. “And I just thought we had to keep resetting, keep coming back to the right mental state of mind, to what the next right step was….And we did it with toughness, togetherness, and defense.”

UCLA’s Kiki Rice attacks the goal. Photo by Jason Purisima / fi360 News

UCLA had the second game of Final Four doubleheader and came out the gate attacking on both ends with a 10-0 run in the first quarter to take an early advantage, 14-6.

“I like having the second game because of the quick warmup and then get out there ready to play,” said UCLA Senior Guard KiKi Rice postgame.

Similar to how South Carolina vs UConn game, Lady Bruins and Lady Longhorns accumulated low quarter scoring in the first half. While the first semifinal game reached 50 points combined, UCLA and UT combined for 37 points making this game a NCAA record for lowest points in a Final Four first half as both teams scored six points in one of the two quarters.

UCLA’s Lauren Betts #51 finished with 16 points, 11 rebounds, 3 blocks, and 3 assists. Photo by Jason Purisima / fi360 News

.”I wanted to apologize to all the fans for the rugby match and the 23 turnovers, coach Close said. “I give credit to them [UT] that they play that hard to force that kind of game and they have some just excellent players on their team.”

UCLA went to their leading scorer and expected first round WNBA top 10 draft pick, Betts whom posted six points and grabbed down four rebounds, to lead her team into halftime with a three-point lead, 20-17.

Second half resume like first half’s first quarter for UCLA, starting with Bruins going up 10 again in the third quarter and finishing with a 11-9 advantage to extend their lead, 31-26.

UCLA’s Lauren Betts with the jump shot in the paint. Photo by Jason Purisima / fi360 News

Rice scored all of her 11 points in second half, with a pivotal strong drive in the third and later a momentum boosts three pointer in the fourth, to ignite a 7-4 run, with little over 7:00 remaining in the game, putting UCLA up 38-30.

“When Lauren gets triple and double teamed, it’s big for us guards, so a few of us were able to knock down some big shots,” Rice said.

Betts then gave her team their largest lead thus far in the game, 42-30, before UT’s Madison Booker answered with only her second field goal to cut down the lead back to 10. Betts denied Booker the next time she came through the lane in the paint with a rousing rejection that was part of sealing her team’s victory and extending their season into Sunday final championship game.

Texas Jordan Lee driving the ball from the top of the key. Photo by Jason Purisima / fi360 News

UCLA had four players score in double figures including Gianna Kneepkens, whom hit her second triple of the night to stretch her team lead to 13, 45-32 with less than five minutes remaining.

“Like we want this so bad for each other. And the way we come out, the way we prep, the way we practice, the way we work on defense, the way we go for steals, like that’s all because we just want to earn more days with each other,” Betts said. “We want to make history and we want to do this for all of each other. I think it’s just our connectivity and that’s why we’ve gotten this far and I’m just extremely proud of this group. Obviously, this job’s not finished…”

UCLA did not get a walk in the park win like UT had on them early in their season as UT fought back to the very end, including a 12-2 run to bring them within three, 44-47 in less than a minute remaining of the game.

UCLA’s Angela Dugalic shooting a three pointer. Photo by Jason Purisima / fi360 News

Rice, whom holds NCAA eighth highest free throw percentage at a little over 90 percent, knocked down back-to-back pairs of clutch free throws to put the game and any Longhorn comeback hopes away.

“As a team we practice free throws every single day,” Rice said. “I know I am good free throw shooter and have tons of confidence in it.”

UCLA returns on Sunday to face another USC from the south region in hopes of making history again while USC looks to build on their legacy of NCAA championships with a little redemption from last season’s championship loss.

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