UCLA’s Lauren Betts Rises Amid Intense Practice Challenges

LOS ANGELES — UCLA‘s junior center Lauren Betts is in the spotlight this season, showcasing impressive skills as she prepares for her team’s upcoming showdown against crosstown rival USC. During a recent practice, Betts demonstrated her growth on the court, executing a turnaround fadeaway shot that surprised even her toughest defender, scout team center Jonny Garnett.

Betts, standing at 6-foot-7, had previously relied on layups and hook shots throughout her first two years, attempting only 12 jump shots. However, as she enters a crucial phase in her career, her practice battles with Garnett have forced her to diversify her offense. “Going against Jonny every day has made me so much better and so much more skilled,” Betts said. “I give a lot of credit to him because he never takes it easy on me every single day.”

This season’s practice routine has been grueling, aimed at addressing weaknesses identified after UCLA’s disappointing postseason in 2023-24. Betts’ goals include improving her finishing skills, facilitating plays from the high post, and enhancing her perimeter defense. Garnett, a former linebacker turned scout player, has proven to be an ideal partner in this endeavor.

Assistant coach Soh Matsuura considers Garnett instrumental in Betts’ development, as he specifically tailors the scout team to mimic the competitive edge of upcoming opponents. “He really wanted me to guard her tougher than you do normally because there will be times where I don’t play super hard defense so that they can get the moves off,” Garnett recalled, noting the importance of preparing Betts for the defensive strategies she will encounter during games.

As the Bruins prepare for their sold-out game against USC, which will be streamed on Peacock, the stakes are high for both teams. UCLA boasts an undefeated 23-0 record, while USC, led by standout JuJu Watkins, has emerged as a tough competitor with a strong defensive strategy. Coach Cori Close acknowledged the game’s significance, calling it a “Final Four dress rehearsal.”

Betts, currently ranking among the top players nationally with averages of 19.6 points and 9.7 rebounds per game, faces pressure to perform, especially after last year’s struggles. With Garnett pushing her limits in practice, she is forced to adapt and refine her skills continuously. “There will be days when I try to front her but I can’t even get around. She’s good at holding the seal,” Garnett admitted.

Despite their intense practice sessions, Garnett is a supportive figure for Betts, providing constructive feedback and helping her build confidence. “He never trash-talks me during practices. Instead, he constantly builds me up,” Betts said. Her improved mindset has not only elevated her game but also her leadership qualities on the team. She now actively encourages teammates to get her involved, showcasing a more assertive role compared to previous seasons.

“An area that we really love to see her growth in is her leadership and how much she’s demanding of us,” junior guard Kiki Rice noted, highlighting Betts’ importance to the Bruins’ success.

As the game against USC approaches, Betts and her teammates are ready to demonstrate their preparation and resolve. They hope to continue their impressive run and silence critics still skeptical about the Bruins’ capacity to excel in high-pressure situations.