UCLA Trails LSU at Halftime in Elite 8 Showdown

Spokane, WA – The UCLA Bruins found themselves trailing the LSU Tigers at halftime on March 30, 2025, with a score of 31-25 in their NCAA Women’s Championship Elite 8 matchup at the Spokane Arena.

After a competitive first half, the game remained tight, with both teams showcasing their skills on the court. At halftime, UCLA struggled with their shooting percentage, recording just 31% from the field, compared to LSU’s 44%.

LSU’s Janiah Barker was instrumental in maintaining her team’s lead during the first half, contributing significantly with free throws and aggressive play. “We just need to continue executing our game plan and maintain our defensive pressure,” Barker said post-game. “We know UCLA is a strong team, but we’re here to compete.”

UCLA’s starting lineup faced challenges, particularly in their three-point shooting, where they went 0 for 2. Coach Cori Close expressed the need for her team to adapt. “We have to find better shots and make our opportunities count in the second half,” Close stated.

Both teams ended the second quarter with fluctuating momentum, but LSU’s ability to capitalize on turnovers proved pivotal. The stats reflected LSU’s advantage, with the Tigers securing 28 rebounds while UCLA managed just 17.

With just moments left before halftime, UCLA’s Last-Tear Poa missed a three-point jumper, which could have narrowed the score further. Despite this, the Bruins secured a dead-ball team rebound, leading to a strategic halftime huddle aimed at refocusing their energy for the second half.

The odds heading into the game showed LSU as a slight favorite, with a spread of -5.5, indicating close competition expected from both sides. Sports analysts noted that a comeback in the second half from UCLA is not out of the question, given their comeback capabilities demonstrated throughout the season.

As both teams regroup, the second half promises excitement and intensity as the stakes get higher in this pivotal tournament battle.