Projecting UCLA Basketball’s First Player off Bench This Season

It’s an uphill battle in most games in the Big Ten, and there are high expectations for the Bruins this season.

UCLA has bolstered its roster with newcomers such as Serbian star Nikola Kusturica, Texas Tech’s Jaylen Petty, and Butler’s Azavier Robinson, to name a few, while also retaining several key pieces from last season.

Jan 31, 2026; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Georgetown Hoyas guard KJ Lewis (5) drives against Butler Bulldogs guard Azavier Robinson (23) during the second half at Hinkle Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Robert Goddin-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Trent Perry, Eric Dailey, and Xavier Booker highlight the Bruins’ returning talent, with all three expected to assume a starting position when the season tips off.

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The starting lineup has never really been the question. From an outside perspective, it seems obvious that the starting five will consist of Kusturica, Perry, Petty, Dailey, and Booker. The better question is, who’s coming off the bench first?

Candidate for Sixth Man

Auburn Tigers forward Filip Jovi (38) is introduced as Auburn Tigers take on Seattle Redhawks during the second round of the National Invitation Tournament at Neville Arena in Auburn, Ala. on Sunday, March 22, 2026. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

The cleanest answer would be Auburn transfer Filip Jovic.

Jovic may not have the offensive skill set of some of the other UCLA starters, but his versatility should allow him to find a home on the floor.

Xavier Booker comes in as the biggest question mark among the starters on this team, as consistency and rebounding have been flagged as potential issues for that Bruins frontcourt.

Auburn Tigers forward Filip Jovic (38) looses the ball Sunday, April 5, 2026, during the NIT men’s basketball championship game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

Jovic could be incredibly valuable if he’s able to provide minutes at the five and allow Cronin to not completely change his rotation,…

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Publish date : 2026-08-25 11:00:00

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