LOS ANGELES — Elina Aarnisalo contributed 15 points, while Kiki Rice added 14, leading the top-ranked UCLA Bruins to a commanding 79-53 victory over Minnesota on Sunday.
Londynn Jones also made an impact with 13 points, and Lauren Betts showcased her playmaking skills by providing 11 assists for UCLA, which improved to a remarkable 21-0 overall and 9-0 in the Big Ten conference.
The Bruins dominated the second half with an impressive 46-25 scoring advantage against the Golden Gophers.
For Minnesota, Amaya Battle was the standout performer, netting 21 points. Grace Grocholski supported the effort with 12 points and eight rebounds, but it wasn’t enough to secure a win for Minnesota, which now stands at 18-5 and 6-5 in the conference.
UCLA has demonstrated a powerful presence on its home court, earning victories in their last 13 consecutive home games dating back to the previous season.
**Key Observations:**
Minnesota’s Battle initially kept her team competitive, scoring 17 points prior to halftime, which included the Golden Gophers’ opening nine points of the matchup. However, she struggled in the second half as UCLA established control of the game.
UCLA, on the other hand, displayed notable depth in their roster, with ten players contributing to the scoring, and five players managing to score at least nine points throughout the contest.
**Crucial Turning Point:**
With Minnesota trailing by just three points at 31-28 and possessing the ball near the end of the first half, a pivotal play occurred when Angela Dugalic intercepted a pass intended for the Bruins. She then assisted Jones on a jumper that expanded UCLA’s lead before blocking a shot on the opposite end as the clock ran out. After that moment, Minnesota was unable to come within a single possession for the remainder of the game.
**Significant Statistic:**
The Bruins have achieved a remarkable feat, winning their last twelve contests by a margin of at least 15 points.
**Next Up:**
Minnesota will look to bounce back as they host Iowa on Thursday, while UCLA prepares for a significant matchup against No. 8 Ohio State on Wednesday.
