Angela Dugalic Energizes Bruins with Standout Performance from UCLA Bench
UCLA advanced to the Elite Eight with an 80-56 win over Minnesota in the Sweet 16. The game took place Friday night at Sacramento’s Golden 1 Center.
Angela Dugalic energized the Bruins with a standout performance coming off the UCLA bench. She posted a double-double with 13 points and a team-high 10 rebounds.
Dominance in the paint
The Bruins outscored Minnesota inside by a 52-22 margin. Lauren Betts added 16 points and helped anchor UCLA’s interior attack.
Dugalic’s boards and interior scoring proved decisive. She converted six of her final eight shots after an early miss.
Versatility and role adjustment
At 6-foot-4, Dugalic can function as a forward or a big guard. Her skill set gives UCLA matchup advantages on both ends.
She started 34 of 35 games last season. For her final collegiate year, she agreed to come off the bench to help the team.
Coaching and team trust
Coach Cori Close deployed Dugalic in different roles depending on matchups. Against smaller defenders she posted up; against bigger foes she stretched the floor and set screens.
Point guard Kiki Rice praised Dugalic’s consistency and ability to change the game. Dugalic told Filmogaz.com she embraced the role to reduce team anxiety and help teammates.
Key plays and recognition
Dugalic recorded a block on Amaya Battle and pulled rebounds against Brylee Glenn. Her physical presence forced defensive rotations throughout the game.
Teammates lauded her selflessness and impact off the bench. UCLA relied on those contributions as they pulled away in the second half.
What’s next
The Bruins will meet third-seeded Duke in the Elite Eight on Sunday. UCLA will look to build on the momentum Dugalic provided off the bench.
