Indiana Edges Out UCLA 98-97 in Thrilling Finish

In a nail-biting clash, Indiana edged out UCLA with a final score of 98-97 in double overtime at Pauley Pavilion. The match showcased intense back-and-forth action, high-pressure free throws, and heroic performances from multiple players.

First Half Struggles

Indiana faced difficulties offensively during the first half, struggling against UCLA’s aggressive defense. Despite a brief 12-0 run that initially propelled the Hoosiers to a 22-16 lead, they ended the half trailing 36-30.

Indiana’s shooting was below par, with a 10-for-27 success rate from the field and 5-for-15 from beyond the arc. Lamar Wilkerson and Reed Bailey contributed with nine and ten points, respectively, as the team aimed to stay competitive through strong defensive plays. They allowed only five second-chance points to the Bruins, who shot 43.3 percent overall.

Second Half Resurgence

The second half saw Indiana regain momentum, narrowing the gap to 43-40 early on. Junior wing Nick Dorn played a pivotal role, scoring eight of the Hoosiers’ first ten points after the break. By the under-12 media timeout, he had elevated his contribution to 15 second-half points, leading Indiana to a 49-47 advantage.

Bailey’s driving dunk extended Indiana’s lead to four at 56-52 with just over eight minutes remaining. A 3-pointer from Wilkerson brought the lead to ten at 66-56, but UCLA quickly responded, tightening the score in the closing minutes. A dramatic late-game sequence ensued, including key free throws from both teams.

Overtime Thrills

With the game tied at 73-73, the teams headed to overtime after a last-second 3-pointer from Trent Perry. The overtime saw UCLA briefly hold an 81-78 lead before Indiana rallied to tie it at 84, forcing a second overtime.

The final moments of the second overtime were electrifying. With the score tied at 97, Indiana’s Trent Sisley was fouled while receiving an inbounds pass. He converted one of his free throws, sealing the thrilling victory at 98-97.

Standout Performers

Nick Dorn emerged as the game’s top scorer, finishing with 26 points, including six 3-pointers, along with seven rebounds. Reed Bailey and Lamar Wilkerson also made significant contributions, each scoring 24 points. Bailey added six rebounds and five assists before fouling out, while Wilkerson had eight rebounds in addition to his scoring.

Key Statistics

• Indiana shot 31-for-38 from the free-throw line.
• Hoosiers scored 1.11 points per possession.
• IU bench scored 27 points.
• Points off turnovers: Indiana 17, UCLA 9.

Next Matchup

Indiana will face USC in their next challenge, concluding their West Coast trip. The game is scheduled for Tuesday night at the Galen Center, with a tip-off at 10 p.m. ET, available on Peacock and NBC Sports Network.