UCLA blows out Boston University despite familiar shooting and turnover issues

UCLA’s William Kyle III, right, celebrates near teammate Tyler Bilodeau (34) after scoring in the first half of a 71-40 win over Boston University at Pauley Pavilion on Monday night. (Etienne Laurent / Associated Press)

The long road back to prestige started at home, against a largely anonymous opponent.

Having failed its first test against a mid-major, UCLA took a step down in competition Monday night and didn’t do a lot to convince anyone it belonged back in the national rankings.

Many of the same problems that plagued the Bruins last week were present again during a disjointed 71-40 victory over Boston University at Pauley Pavilion.

There were turnovers galore, long scoring droughts and more struggles making shots from long range.

Read more: Tyler Bilodeau’s big game can’t save UCLA in frustrating loss to New Mexico

Fortunately for the Bruins, their defense proved too much against an opponent incapable of handling active hands and backcourt pressure. UCLA (2-1) forced 28 turnovers that it converted into 36 points in taking a small step forward after its loss to New Mexico.

The Bruins hadn’t been able to do nearly as much with the 24 turnovers they forced against the Lobos, those miscues translating to just 15 points.

In a more encouraging development, it’s the first time UCLA has forced 20 or more turnovers in back-to-back games since it did against Wyoming, Louisiana Tech and Oregon State during the 2008-09 season.

UCLA guard Kobe Johnson had four steals and forward Eric Dailey Jr. added three for a team that finished with 14. Boston (0-3) had trouble merely getting the ball into the frontcourt during the Bruins’ 9-0 and 10-0 runs early in the second half that turned the game into a blowout.

Things were not nearly as pretty for UCLA on the offensive front.

UCLA’s William Kyle III dunks during the first half against Boston University on Monday night. (Etienne Laurent / Associated Press)

Dailey and Lazar Stefanovic scored 13 points apiece for the Bruins, who made only five…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/ucla-blows-boston-university-despite-053136199.html

Author : LA Times

Publish date : 2024-11-12 05:31:00

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