UCLA Bruins Secure Win Over West Georgia Ahead of Arizona Showdown

Los Angeles, California — The No. 15 UCLA Bruins, now 3-0, delivered a much-needed victory against West Georgia on Monday, winning 83-62, ahead of their challenging matchup with No. 5 Arizona later this week.

Star point guard Donovan Dent was sidelined during Monday’s game, leaving a noticeable gap in the Bruins’ offensive strategy. UCLA led only 37-32 at halftime as West Georgia was lethal from beyond the arc.

In Dent’s absence, forward Tyler Bilodeau took the lead, scoring 21 points and securing four rebounds in an impressive performance. Sophomore guard Trent Perry also stepped up, contributing 17 points, five rebounds, and a remarkable nine assists, with only two turnovers.

Bilodeau and Perry’s efforts were crucial as the Bruins faced difficulties early, with Eric Dailey Jr. adding 14 points and graduate forward Jamar Brown scoring 10 points off the bench, including two three-pointers.

West Georgia’s Brady Hardewig made a splash with a career-high 14 points, hitting four three-pointers in the first half. Shelton Williams-Dryden led the Wolves in scoring with 16 points, while Nigerian center Kenneth Chime had a strong defensive showing with five blocks.

UCLA coach Mick Cronin acknowledged the importance of the win, especially after previously unconvincing performances against Eastern Washington and Pepperdine. “It’s great for us. The worst thing that can happen is when a team lays down and lets you win,” Cronin said.

Looking ahead, Dent is expected to return as UCLA prepares to face Arizona at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, on Friday.