LOS ANGELES (AP) – After a tough battle through three quarters, UCLA proved why they are the top team in the nation, holding off No. 8 Ohio State 65-52 on Wednesday night. The Bruins, led by Lauren Betts’ 19 points and 14 rebounds, extended their perfect season with their 22nd straight win, remaining the only unbeaten team in Division I.
Ohio State showed resilience, especially in the third quarter, where they outscored UCLA 18-14. The Buckeyes, led by Jaloni Cambridge’s 18 points and Cotie McMahon’s 14, closed the gap to just two points heading into the final quarter. Despite a strong effort, Ohio State couldn’t maintain the pressure as UCLA’s Kiki Rice and Gabriela Jaquez took over in the fourth.
Betts dominated the first half, scoring 13 points and grabbing 10 rebounds by halftime. Despite the Bruins’ offensive struggles in the second quarter, where they were held to just 12 points, they went into the break with a six-point lead, thanks to Betts’ strong performance.
In the second half, Ohio State’s defense remained solid but failed to capitalize on opportunities. Graduate senior Petty struggled, failing to score through three quarters, while McMahon’s speed and agility helped Ohio State chip away at UCLA’s lead. McMahon added a fast-break layup after grabbing a loose ball on defense, keeping Ohio State within striking distance.
The Buckeyes rallied in the third quarter, with McMahon and Cambridge combining for 16 points, including a rare three-pointer. However, UCLA responded in the fourth, as Rice scored four quick points and Jaquez took charge with nine points in the final frame, pushing the Bruins’ lead to an insurmountable 18 points.
Despite Ohio State’s strong individual performances, including Cambridge’s eight rebounds and six assists, the Buckeyes couldn’t overcome UCLA’s late surge. Rice finished with 12 points, including six in the fourth, while Jaquez added 15 points and dominated the closing minutes of the game.
