UCLA Women Aim to Sharpen Skills Against No. 8 Iowa Sunday
As the UCLA women’s basketball team prepares for a pivotal matchup against No. 8 Iowa this Sunday, coach Cori Close reflects on the challenges they faced during their recent victory. The Bruins secured an 80-67 win at Illinois, showcasing resilience even when struggling to shoot effectively from beyond the arc.
UCLA’s Stellar Season
The Bruins currently boast an impressive overall record of 20-1 and remain undefeated in the Big Ten at 10-0. They recently ascended to No. 2 in national rankings, trailing only unbeaten Connecticut. The upcoming game against Iowa marks a significant moment, as it will be the ninth ranked opponent UCLA has faced this season.
Key Players and Statistics
- All-American center Lauren Betts excelled against Illinois, scoring 23 points and grabbing 9 rebounds.
- Senior guard Kiki Rice highlighted the importance of facing adversity, indicating that the Illinois game presented a valuable learning experience.
- Iowa’s recent defeat to USC has placed them in a tie for second place in the conference with No. 9 Michigan.
- The Hawkeyes, led by coach Jan Jensen, previously enjoyed an eight-game winning streak before the loss.
Preparing for Competition
Coach Close emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement. She noted that the team needs to learn from every game and apply those lessons in future matchups. The rivalry against Iowa promises intensity, given both teams’ consistent performances this season.
Game Dynamics
The last encounter between UCLA and Iowa was a nail-biter, with the Bruins narrowly winning 67-65 in Iowa City last February. Betts contributed significantly then with 22 points and 12 rebounds, a performance both teams will seek to replicate or surpass.
Looking Ahead
Close acknowledges the qualities of both teams, emphasizing that discipline and strategic execution will be crucial in the upcoming contest. Freshman Journey Houston and Ava Heiden have stepped up for Iowa, making them formidable opponents.
As game day approaches, both teams prepare to assert their style and dominance on the court. The matchup at Pauley Pavilion promises to be a thrilling battle and a pivotal moment in both teams’ seasons.
