SEATTLE — Skyy Clark contributed significantly with 12 points and six rebounds, while Aday Mara added 12 points and seven rebounds off the bench as UCLA narrowly defeated Washington 65-60 on Friday night.
UCLA, now sitting at 14-6 overall and 5-4 in the conference, recorded its third consecutive victory following an 85-83 win against No. 18 Wisconsin. Meanwhile, Washington’s performance dropped to 10-10 with a disappointing 1-8 record against Big 10 opponents, marking their sixth consecutive loss to a team from that conference. This streak ties for the longest for the Huskies since experiencing eight straight defeats in the 2020-21 season.
In the first half, Washington held a lead that extended to seven points at one stage. However, a critical 3-pointer from Kobe Johnson allowed UCLA to equal the score at 22-22 with 7:31 remaining. Subsequently, Lazar Stefanovic intercepted the ball from DJ Davis and executed a dunk just moments later, which would set the Bruins ahead for the remainder of the game.
The second half saw Washington attempt a comeback; Mehki Mason’s second 3-pointer trimmed the deficit to four points at 54-50 with 6:41 on the clock. In a nail-biting finish, DJ Davis nailed a 3-pointer with just 1:39 left, making the score 58-55. However, UCLA managed to extend their lead in the closing seconds with a long-range shot from Dylan Andrews and two successful free throws by Clark.
Clark showcased an impressive shooting night, connecting on 3 out of 5 three-point attempts, while also hitting 3 of 4 from the charity stripe. He also recorded three assists and secured two steals. Aday Mara was efficient as well, going 5 for 10 from the field and blocking five shots. Additionally, Eric Dailey Jr. and Johnson each contributed 11 points for the Bruins.
For Washington, Great Osobor stood out as he led the team with 19 points and nine rebounds, sinking 6 of 12 attempts from the field and hitting 7 of 9 free throws. He was the only player for the Huskies to score in double figures.
Looking ahead, the Bruins will be facing USC on Monday, while Washington will head to Minnesota on February 1.
