UCLA defeated Ohio State 69-61 in a crucial Big Ten matchup on Sunday, holding the Buckeyes to an abhorrent 31.7% from the field. The Bruins’ stingy defense was led by forward Eric Dailey Jr., who scored 20 points and grabbed several blocks. The team’s strong performance on both ends of the floor allowed them to control the game, despite a late push from Ohio State.
The first half was a defensive struggle, with both teams combining for 12 turnovers and neither scoring for over four minutes. However, UCLA broke through with a 7-0 run in the final minutes of the half, taking a 28-24 lead into halftime.
In the second half, Dailey Jr. continued his dominance, leading the Bruins to an 8-0 run that put them up by nine points. Ohio State responded with a 7-0 run, but UCLA’s strong defense held off the Buckeyes’ comeback attempt.
The game was a testament to UCLA’s defensive prowess, as they allowed just 31.7% shooting from the field and grabbed six blocks on the defensive end of the floor. Meanwhile, Ohio State struggled to find its rhythm, with many of its key players failing to score in double figures.
UCLA’s win marked their 20th of the season, improving their record to 11-6 in the Big Ten. The Bruins will look to continue their strong performance as they host USC on Wednesday, while Ohio State concludes its two-game trip to Los Angeles.
Source: https://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-state-basketball/2025/02/153985/ohio-state-drops-third-straight-game-falling-at-ucla-69-61-in-bad-offensive-outing