UCLA's strong performance at Pauley Pavilion on Friday night resulted in a convincing 67-55 win over Maryland. The Bruins, now 14-6 on the season, were led by Trent Perry's 16 points and 6 rebounds, showcasing their depth and versatility. Eric Dailey Jr. also had a notable game, contributing 15 points and 9 rebounds to help UCLA secure the 12-point victory.
The game got off to a slow start for Maryland, as they managed only 21 points in the first half, trailing UCLA 38-21 at the break. The Bruins' defense was stifling, holding the Terrapins to just 31% shooting from the field in the opening 20 minutes. On the other hand, UCLA's offense was clicking, with Perry and Dailey Jr. combining for 21 points in the first half.
In the second half, Maryland attempted to mount a comeback, led by Elijah Saunders' impressive 17 points and 12 rebounds. Saunders was a force to be reckoned with, but his efforts were not enough to overcome the deficit. Darius Adams added 13 points and 6 rebounds for the Terrapins, but they ultimately fell short.
UCLA's victory was a reflection of their balanced attack, with three players scoring in double figures. Tyler Bilodeau chipped in with 10 points, helping the Bruins maintain their lead throughout the second half. The win marked a strong performance for UCLA, who are now 14-6 on the season and ranked 42nd in the net rankings.
The loss drops Maryland to 8-12 on the season, with a net ranking of 159. Despite the defeat, Saunders' performance was a highlight for the Terrapins, demonstrating his ability to dominate games. However, Maryland's struggles continue, and they must regroup and refocus to turn their season around.
This matchup was a Quadrant 3 game for UCLA and a Quadrant 1 game for Maryland, making the Bruins' win a significant one for their resume. The victory will likely have a positive impact on UCLA's tournament chances, as they continue to build a strong case for a postseason bid. For Maryland, the loss is a setback, but they will have opportunities to bounce back and improve their resume in upcoming games. As the season progresses, both teams want to use this game as a learning experience and continue to push towards their goals.