UCLA avoids a calamitous collapse to secure a narrow 73-69 victory over Northwestern. Initially poised for an easy win, the Bruins faced an unexpected challenge as the Wildcats unleashed a relentless press that nearly turned the tide. However, the Bruins managed to withstand this late-game surge, ensuring they emerged victorious.
The second half showcased a thrilling back-and-forth battle, with UCLA initially gaining momentum through a 12-2 run. Tyler Bilodeau’s impressive back-to-back dunks propelled the Bruins to a 68-54 lead with just over three minutes remaining. In a desperate bid to reclaim control, Northwestern applied full-court pressure, successfully trapping UCLA and forcing three critical turnovers.
Dylan Andrews, the Bruins’ point guard, struggled in the final moments, committing two turnovers that allowed Ty Berry of Northwestern to convert both into dunks. With only 26 seconds left on the clock, Bilodeau’s traveling violation opened the door for Berry to cut the deficit to just one point with a well-executed backdoor layup, bringing the score to 68-67.
Berry’s late-game performance was remarkable, scoring nine points in the final 2:13 and giving the Wildcats a fighting chance. Northwestern had an opportunity to tie the game at 69, but Nick Martinelli’s turnover on a drive proved costly. K.J. Windham then committed a clear path foul against Eric Dailey Jr., who converted both free throws, extending UCLA’s lead to four points with just eight seconds remaining, effectively sealing the victory.
Bilodeau, who averages 14.1 points per game, led the Bruins with 19 points on this occasion. Dailey contributed 12 points, while Aday Mara, the Spanish center, recorded his second double-double of the season with 11 points and 10 rebounds. UCLA has proven to be a formidable force this season, boasting a perfect 7-0 record when Mara scores in double figures.
On the other hand, Berry led Northwestern with 22 points on Senior Night, while Martinelli added 20. Northwestern’s overall record stands at 16-14, with a 7-12 mark in the Big Ten, leaving them precariously positioned just half a game ahead of Iowa and Southern California for the last qualifying spot in the upcoming Big Ten Tournament.
UCLA has shown resilience, winning 10 of their last 13 games and improving to 8-3 in contests decided by five points or fewer. With a record of 21-9 and 12-7 in the Big Ten, the Bruins are just half a game behind Wisconsin, Maryland, and Purdue for the coveted final double-bye in the Big Ten Tournament.
Northwestern’s three-game winning streak has come to an end, and they will face No. 13 Maryland on Saturday. Meanwhile, UCLA will conclude their regular season at home against rival USC on the same day.
