Los Angeles - In a highly anticipated matchup, top-ranked UCLA women's basketball team secured a decisive 65-52 victory over No. 8 Ohio State on Wednesday night. The Bruins, boasting a perfect 22-0 record, showcased their dominance in the fourth quarter to extend their winning streak to a historic 22 games, surpassing a record set over four decades ago.
Lauren Betts led the charge for UCLA with an impressive double-double performance, contributing 19 points and 14 rebounds. Gabriela Jaquez added 17 points, while Kiki Rice chipped in with 12 points to solidify the Bruins' victory.
Despite a strong effort from Ohio State, led by Jaloni Cambridge's 21 points, the Buckeyes struggled to find their rhythm, shooting a season-low 29.4% from the field. UCLA capitalized on their defensive efforts, outrebounding Ohio State 13-2 in the crucial fourth quarter.
After a tied score early in the fourth quarter, UCLA unleashed a 19-1 run to put the game out of reach, highlighted by Jaquez's nine points during the decisive stretch. The Bruins' resilience was evident as they overcame a season-high 23 turnovers, showcasing their ability to adapt and maintain composure under pressure.
Looking ahead, Ohio State is set to face off against No. 7 Southern California in a nationally-televised showdown, while UCLA will travel to Oregon for their next challenge. The Bruins' remarkable undefeated streak has solidified their position as a powerhouse in women's college basketball, garnering attention and respect across the nation.
For more updates and insights on women's college basketball, stay tuned to the AP Top 25 rankings throughout the season.
Sources: AP Top 25 Women's College Basketball Poll and Women's College Basketball News
