UCLA Bruins Host Boston University Terriers in College Basketball Matchup

The UCLA Bruins, currently ranked 22nd nationally, are set to host the Boston University Terriers at Pauley Pavilion on Monday, November 11, 2024. This matchup comes after both teams suffered losses in their previous games. The Bruins, who have a 1-1 record, are looking to bounce back from a 72-64 defeat to New Mexico, while the Terriers, with a 0-2 record, aim to recover from a 74-60 loss to San Diego.

The Bruins, despite their talent and preseason expectations, have been plagued by familiar issues, particularly poor outside shooting. In their loss to New Mexico, UCLA shot just 5-of-23 from three-point range, a problem that persisted from last season when they connected on only 33.2 percent of their long-range attempts.

UCLA is led by Tyler Bilodeau, a transfer from Oregon State, who is averaging 20.5 points and 10.5 rebounds per game. Other key contributors include Kobe Johnson with 9.5 points and 6 rebounds per game, and Dylan Andrews as the third double-digit scorer. The Bruins are averaging 74.5 points on 45 percent shooting and allowing 61 points on 40.2 percent shooting.

Boston University, on the other hand, is struggling to find its footing. The Terriers are averaging 66 points on 40.7 percent shooting and allowing 77 points on 54.7 percent shooting. Senior Malcolm Chimezie leads the team in rebounds with 8.0 per game and is second in scoring with 11.5 points per game. Ben Palacios, who made his first appearance of the season against San Diego, scored 15 points and hit three 3-pointers.

The game is expected to be a significant challenge for Boston University, given UCLA’s strong home record. The Bruins have won 35 of their last 41 games against non-conference opponents at Pauley Pavilion. The line for the game is set at UCLA -23.5, with an over/under of 134.5 points.

This matchup marks the conclusion of Boston University’s first West Coast trip in 11 years and will be a pivotal game for both teams as they seek to improve their early-season records.