UCLA Men Triumph Over Eastern Washington in Season Opener
In a thrilling season opener on November 3, 2025, the UCLA Bruins secured an 80-74 victory over the Eastern Washington Eagles at Pauley Pavilion in Los Angeles. Despite the win, Head Coach Mick Cronin expressed his dissatisfaction with the team’s performance, particularly their lack of perimeter defense and rim protection.
Game Summary
UCLA faced some challenges against Eastern Washington, which quickly took advantage of the Bruins’ sluggish play. The Eagles’ guard Isaiah Moses stood out, showcasing impressive offensive skills and contributing significantly to his team’s performance.
- Final Score: UCLA 80, Eastern Washington 74
- Date: November 3, 2025
- Location: Pauley Pavilion, Los Angeles
- UCLA Record: 1-0
- Eastern Washington Record: 0-1
Key Players
- Donovan Dent (UCLA): 21 points, 9 assists
- Tyler Bilodeau (UCLA): 19 points
- Isaiah Moses (Eastern Washington): Crucial contributor with multiple key plays
First Half Highlights
The first half saw back-and-forth scoring, with Eastern Washington briefly leading 18-17 due to strong offensive drives. The Bruins struggled defensively, allowing 38 points in the paint and looking lackluster on the perimeter.
Second Half Developments
In the second half, UCLA attempted to increase their intensity, leading to opportunities for turnovers. Skyy Clark’s hustle sparked a crucial drive, helping the Bruins extend their lead to 54-39. However, late-game resilience from the Eagles brought them within six points of UCLA.
Coach’s Insight
Coach Cronin voiced his frustration candidly after the game. He mentioned the team’s uncharacteristic errors and the need for increased focus moving forward. Despite the victory, he acknowledged that the performance was below the team’s standard.
Looking Ahead
As the season progresses, UCLA must address their defensive lapses to ensure better outcomes in future games. Players like Dent and Bilodeau understand the importance of maintaining consistency and improving their overall focus in preparation for upcoming challenges.
The Bruins’ opener serves as both a victory and a valuable lesson in humility, prompting a reminder of the need for consistent effort and dedication throughout the season.
