Ahead of the Ohio State women’s basketball team’s West Coast trip to face No. 1 UCLA, it’s time to dive deeper into what makes the Bruins the top team in the nation. UCLA, the only undefeated team left in the country, boasts standout center Lauren Betts and a seasoned team that has grown stronger over the last couple of years. To gain insight, Land-Grant Holy Land spoke with Mike Regalado from the Bruin Report, who covers the UCLA women’s basketball team. Regalado shared his thoughts on Betts’ improvements this season, the developing chemistry between Betts and guard Kiki Rice, and the upcoming UCLA-USC showdown.
Land-Grant Holy Land: With JuJu Watkins in the mix for National Player of the Year honors, Lauren Betts is having a season that could place her in the same conversation. What has she done this season to elevate her game?
Bruin Report: Betts has become more confident, and her rim protection and footwork have significantly improved. Her movement in the paint, when not double- or triple-teamed, is much smoother this season. Her leadership on the team has also been key in her development.
LGHL: Kiki Rice and Betts showed flashes of brilliance last season, but they’ve truly elevated their partnership this year. What’s changed?
BR: Last season, we saw glimpses of their potential, but with another year of experience, they’ve taken it to another level. Along with the support of four other juniors, the chemistry between Rice and Betts has been phenomenal. This season’s experience and cohesion are something head coach Cori Close hasn’t had in her tenure at UCLA.
More News: Kansas City Chiefs OG, Trey Smith Expected to Hit Free Agency Amid Super Bowl Run Trey Smith, the standout offensive guard for the Kansas City Chiefs, is facing an uncertain future as he heads into free agency following the conclusion of the 2024 season. As one of the key figures in the Chiefs’ offensive line, Smith's potential departure raises questions about the future of Kansas City's highly effective front five, especially as the team aims for another Super Bowl appearance in 2025. Smith, who was drafted by the Chiefs in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, has quickly developed into a reliable force in the trenches. His progression has been particularly impressive given the medical concerns that led to his fall in the draft. Despite concerns over blood clots in his lungs, Smith has demonstrated durability and has been a consistent starter since his rookie season. His success has been a testament to both his physical talent and his ability to overcome adversity. Throughout his tenure in Kansas City, Smith has earned a reputation for his physicality and strong blocking ability. As a key cog in the Chiefs’ high-powered offense, his ability to open lanes for both the running game and provide protection for quarterback Patrick Mahomes has been invaluable. His presence on the line has helped the Chiefs’ offense maintain one of the most efficient and explosive units in the league, allowing Mahomes the time he needs to execute plays and orchestrate the team’s dynamic aerial attack. However, Smith’s contract situation is now coming to a head. The offensive guard is expected to hit free agency at the conclusion of the 2024 season, and his potential departure would leave a significant hole in the Chiefs' offensive line. As the Chiefs prepare for their postseason push and aim for another Super Bowl title, the looming question of Smith’s future with the team will undoubtedly be a topic of conversation. The Chiefs will need to weigh their options carefully. Smith’s impending free agency comes at a time when the team is focused on maintaining its Super Bowl contention window. Retaining key players on both sides of the ball, including Smith, is vital for the franchise’s ongoing success. However, with limited salary cap space and a number of important players set to become free agents, the Chiefs may be forced to make difficult decisions about who to prioritize. The market for Smith will likely be strong. His combination of youth, skill, and durability makes him a highly attractive option for teams looking to bolster their offensive line. His reputation as a hard-nosed, physical blocker will undoubtedly catch the eye of several contenders looking for immediate upgrades along the interior of their line. For the Chiefs, the risk of losing Smith could be significant. If Smith does leave in free agency, the team would need to replace his production, which would not be an easy task given his importance to the offensive line. Kansas City could look to fill the void through the draft or free agency, but replacing a player with Smith’s caliber is no small feat, especially during a Super Bowl window. In conclusion, while Trey Smith's status as a free agent might be overshadowed by the Chiefs’ Super Bowl aspirations, his future remains a critical storyline as the team heads into the postseason. Chiefs fans will be hoping for a successful title run, but also for a resolution to Smith’s contract situation that will allow the team to retain one of its key building blocks for the future.
LGHL: UCLA dominated inside last season when they faced Ohio State, but this year, the Buckeyes are quicker and have improved their interior game. How has UCLA handled teams that focus on speed and disruption?
BR: UCLA is also capable of playing at a fast pace. What sets them apart is their quickness on both ends of the floor. The backcourt of Rice, Londynn Jones, and Gabriela Jaquez are exceptional defensive players, often shutting down opposing teams, even if they don’t block every shot.
LGHL: Preseason polls favored USC as the No. 1 team in the Pac-12, but UCLA has proven themselves as the nation’s top team. Can you discuss the importance of the upcoming UCLA-USC matchups?
BR: The UCLA-USC rivalry is set to be huge again. Last season, both games were sold out, and with both teams likely ranked in the top 10, this year promises even more intensity. The matchup is bound to be a clash of two powerhouse teams. UCLA’s upcoming schedule is packed with challenges: they’ll face No. 8 Ohio State, Oregon, No. 7 USC, and No. 20 Michigan State in the next two weeks, making it a tough stretch ahead for the Bruins.
