UCLA forward Tyler Bilodeau is set to face off against Gonzaga counterpart Graham Ike in a crucial matchup. Both players are highly skilled and have impressive stats. Bilodeau averages 15.1 points per game, while Ike leads the Zags with 15.5 points. The two also share similar numbers in rebounds, with Bilodeau averaging 5.3 and Ike averaging 6.6.
However, they operate differently on the court. Bilodeau is more mobile and often launches from behind the three-point line or uses dribbling to create a shot. In contrast, Ike relies on his size and works off the pick-and-roll with point guard Ryan Nembhard.
Their styles will be tested in a game where offenses don’t rely heavily on three-point shots. Bilodeau’s background also stands out, having played club hockey and helping his team achieve state finishes. He played two years at Oregon State before transferring to UCLA.
The matchup between Bilodeau and Ike is still uncertain as both teams have multiple options off the bench. The Zags could use Michael Ajayi or Eric Dailey Jr. to defend Bilodeau, while the Bruins might prefer Oklahoma State transfer Eric Dailey Jr. or South Dakota State transfer William Kyle III against Ike.
Bilodeau’s recent performance was impressive, with 26 points in a game against North Carolina, but he struggled in a loss when he was on the bench due to fouls. He averaged 14.3 points and 5.7 rebounds at Oregon State before joining UCLA.
Source: https://www.yakimaherald.com/ap/sports/key-matchup-uclas-tyler-bilodeau-gonzagas-graham-ike-kind-of-a-big-deal/article_e65602ca-a4ca-5f2a-9a04-41bc6ddfa47d.html