INDIANAPOLIS — Londynn Jones delivered an impressive performance with six 3-pointers, achieving a season-high 22 points to lead No. 4 UCLA to a dominant 75-46 win over No. 13 Ohio State in the Big Ten Tournament semifinals on Saturday. This victory propels UCLA into a highly anticipated matchup on Sunday against No. 2 Southern California, the league’s top team. The upcoming game marks the third face-off this season between the cross-town rivals, with the Trojans having secured victories in both prior meetings, making this encounter a much-anticipated rematch.
Lauren Betts and Gabriela Jaquez contributed to the Bruins’ success, scoring 12 points each while committing to limited playtime. Betts also excelled defensively, grabbing six rebounds, while Jaquez added five. UCLA maintains their impressive form, attaining a second consecutive victory by more than ten points to improve to a 29-2 record. Ohio State’s leading scorer, Jaloni Cambridge, managed 10 points for the Buckeyes, who fell to 25-6.
The game began with UCLA seizing control early, establishing a significant 16-5 lead within the first few minutes. The Bruins intensified their advantage with a 9-0 run to finish the first half, leaving Ohio State scoreless in the last 3:09 and securing a commanding 44-21 lead at halftime.
Takeaways reveal that Ohio State encountered difficulties across the board against UCLA’s determined squad—struggling with shooting accuracy, defensive cohesion, and rebounding. Conversely, Coach Cori Close’s UCLA team displayed focus and resilience in their mission to challenge the Trojans once more. The real test awaits them in the upcoming final.
A pivotal moment occurred when Betts scored consecutive baskets early in the second quarter, igniting a run that widened the Bruins’ lead. Her contribution was instrumental in the game-altering stretch Ohio State failed to overcome.
Statistically, the Buckeyes were outmatched in rebounding, with a significant 21-9 disadvantage in the first half and struggling with allowing 22-4 in second-chance points in the initial two quarters.
Looking ahead, Ohio State now has a week to regroup before entering the NCAA Tournament, providing them time to address the gaps exposed during this matchup.
