UCLA Holds Off Arizona for Season-Opening Upset

UCLA started the campaign by defeating a top-five opponent, overcoming foul trouble and a late Arizona surge to prevail 84-75 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on November 2. The No. 22 Bruins led 43-29 at halftime and had built a 16-point advantage before Arizona mounted its comeback.

The Wildcats narrowed the gap to 71-70 with just over three minutes left. Nikola Kusturica then sent an inbounds pass ahead to Eric Dailey Jr., who finished with a breakaway dunk. Xavier Booker blocked a shot, and Kusturica added two free throws as UCLA secured the result.

Perry scored 21 points, making all 11 of his free throws. Dailey and Jaylen Petty each had 13 points; Petty also recorded seven assists. Ivan Kharchenkov led Arizona with 38 points and 10 rebounds, while Derek Dixon scored 18.

UCLA was without Filip Jovic, who sprained his left ankle in practice and was considered day to day. The Bruins faced early foul trouble and switched to a zone defense, while a 14-0 run helped them establish control. UCLA finished with 16 assists and seven turnovers. This was the Bruins’ third season-opening win over a ranked team since the AP poll began, and their record in season openers under Mick Cronin improved to 7-1.