Five takeaways No. 9 from UCLA’s historic win over Arkansas-Pine Bluff

The No. 9 UCLA Bruins left no doubt in an 106-37 win against the Arkansas-Pine Bluff Golden Lions on Wednesday for their second consecutive win at the Pauley Pavilion.

The Bruins win was their third of the season and it was a dominating performance as the Golden Lions were left in the dust as soon as the game tipped-off. UCLA’s head coach Mick Cronin’s crew won their second game of a five-game homestand with their next game coming against Long Beach State on Monday, Nov. 16. Here were five takeaways from UCLA’s protection of their den.

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Defense leads the way

The Bruins dominated on defense for the entirety of the game, as they held the Golden Lions to just nine points in the first half. According to college basketball insider Jon Rothstein, it ties the fewest amounts of points that the Bruins have given up in a half since the 1975-76 season. How’d they do it? With a ferocious determination at attacking the ball and creating turnovers. UCLA forced 21 turnovers in the first half and allowed Arkansas-Pine Bluff and consistently contested the Golden Lions field goal attempts to allow the Bruins to lead 51-9 at the half and make some history.

Nikola Kusturica continues to develop

Freshman forward Nikola Kusturica continued to stamp his dominance on the Bruins program as he led UCLA and the game with 17 points with just two misses from the field. The 17-year-old’s pinpoint precision was on full display, but he’s defense was just as impressive with two steals, a block and three defensive rebounds. He was constantly a threat on the court and the Golden Lions needed to be aware of his presence at all times. The Bruins have themselves a star and it’s up to Cronin to get the most out of him before he heads into the NBA.

Another new star shines bright

Last game Kusturica had a breakout performance, but this time, the breakout performance goes to Texas Tech sophomore guard transfer Jaylen Petty. The shooting guard was an offensive spark plug for the Bruins with 16 points, the…

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Publish date : 2026-11-12 04:57:00

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