SEATTLE — In a thrilling encounter, Lauren Betts showcased her talents by scoring 23 points, helping the top-ranked UCLA Bruins secure a 73-62 win against the Washington Huskies during the Big Ten opener for both squads.

Kiki Rice contributed significantly with 18 points, keeping UCLA’s perfect record intact at 9-0, with a conference victory that marked their first in the season (1-0). The Bruins displayed dominance, leading by as much as 17 points early in the third quarter.

On the other hand, Washington’s Elle Ladine led the effort for the Huskies, netting 19 points with an impressive 3-for-5 shooting from beyond the three-point line. Dalayah Daniels also made a notable contribution with 14 points.

As the game progressed, the Huskies mounted a spirited comeback. After Sayvia Sellers and Ladine hit consecutive three-pointers, they narrowed UCLA’s lead to just 64-59 with 4:04 remaining. However, the Bruins responded effectively, initiating a decisive 7-0 run that ultimately extinguished Washington’s chances.

UCLA entered halftime with a solid 35-25 lead, demonstrating their offensive prowess.
**Takeaways**
Despite facing one of their toughest challenges on the boards this season, UCLA dominated the paint with a significant 50-22 scoring advantage and outperformed Washington in fastbreak points, 12-3.
Meanwhile, this marks the second narrow defeat for the Huskies against a top-10 team this season, having previously lost 68-67 to No. 5 LSU in a hard-fought game in the Bahamas on November 25.

**Key Moment**
In the final quarter, as Washington came within five points, Betts took charge. She scored with a jumper and sank a free throw on UCLA’s next possession, then followed up with a layup, and Gabriela Jaquez capped it off with a fast-break basket to crystallize the Bruins’ victory.
**Key Stat**
In a surprising turn, UCLA, which had been recognized as the fourth-best rebounding team in the nation, lost the rebounding battle for the first time this season. The Huskies secured 32 rebounds compared to the Bruins’ 30.
**Up Next**
The Bruins will make their way back to Southern California for a game against Long Beach State this Saturday. Meanwhile, the Huskies will remain at home, preparing to face Utah in a non-conference showdown on Saturday.