LOS ANGELES , CA — The No. 3 UCLA women’s basketball team opened its season at home in dominant fashion on Thursday night, cruising past UC Santa Barbara 87–50 at Pauley Pavilion.
The Bruins wasted no time asserting control, racing to a double-digit lead midway through the first quarter behind their trademark defensive intensity and fast-paced offense. UCLA forced 17 turnovers and turned them into 24 points, that helped build a 51–26 advantage at the break.
“A lot of people were scared to play us,” said UCLA coach Cori Close, “this was the hardest year to schedule opponents.”
Senior guard Kiki Rice led the charge with 20 points and 8 assists, while Lauren Betts, in her final season in Westwood, added 12 points and 7 rebounds under multiple double and triple team. Senior guard Gabriela Jaquez impressed contributing 31 points and 6 boards in 30 minutes.
UCLA’s depth proved overwhelming for the visiting Gauchos, who struggled to find rhythm against the Bruins length and athleticism. UC Santa Barbara was led by Olivia Bradley, who scored 11 points, but the Gauchos shot just 36% from the field and were out-rebounded 39-17.
The Bruins dominated the paint, outscoring UCSB 34-30 inside.
“We made some adjustments in the second half, we need to get better on the defensive today.” said Close.
With the win, UCLA improved to 2–0 on the season and extended its home winning streak to 7 games. The Bruins now turn their attention to a marquee nonconference matchup against Oklahoma on Monday November 10.
UC Santa Barbara fell to 1–1 and will look to regroup when it travels to Seattle Redhawks Sunday November 9th.
