LOS ANGELES — Kobe Johnson recorded his first career double-double, achieving 15 points and 13 rebounds, as UCLA triumphed over Penn State with a decisive score of 78-54 on Saturday.
The Bruins displayed exceptional defense, forcing 18 turnovers from the Nittany Lions and converting those mistakes into 24 points. Remarkably, UCLA had a mere four turnovers throughout the game.
With this victory, UCLA improved its record to 18-6 overall and 9-4 in conference play, marking their seventh consecutive win. This successful streak includes impressive victories over ranked opponents such as No. 21 Wisconsin, No. 16 Oregon, and No. 9 Michigan State.
The game began competitively, with Penn State taking a 16-14 lead after Zach Hicks scored two 3-pointers and a pair of free throws. However, UCLA quickly gained momentum; Tyler Bilodeau scored near the basket, followed by a pair of dunks from Skyy Clark and Johnson, propelling the Bruins on a 10-0 run for a commanding 25-16 lead. UCLA maintained control, ending the first half with a 44-31 advantage.
Johnson made 7 of 12 shots from the field (with no attempts from beyond the arc) and also contributed with six assists, four steals, and one blocked shot. Clark had an impressive performance as well, shooting 6 of 7 from the floor to finish with 14 points, while Sebastian Mack added another 14 points off the bench. Bilodeau also played a significant role, scoring 11 points. The Bruins showcased efficient shooting, hitting 47% of their attempts (31 of 66) along with 21 assists and 13 steals.
For Penn State, this loss marked their fifth consecutive defeat, and ninth out of their last ten games. The team managed to shoot 38% overall (19 of 50) but excelled at the free-throw line, going 11 for 12. Hicks was the only Nittany Lion to reach double figures, recording 14 points and eight rebounds.
The win sets UCLA’s coach Mick Cronin just two victories away from reaching his milestone of 500 career wins.
Next up, UCLA is set to visit No. 23 Illinois on Tuesday, while Penn State will face USC on the same day.
