UCLA Looks to Build on Fast Start Against Arkansas-Pine Bluff

UCLA will meet Arkansas-Pine Bluff on Wednesday after opening the season with two wins. The Bruins beat Arizona at a neutral-site game, then defeated North Florida 114-63. A 35-2 run to close the first half helped put the second game out of reach early.

The wins also highlighted questions UCLA will need to address as the season continues. Against Arizona, the Bruins made 38% of their shots and 34% of their three-pointers. They improved to 54.3% from the field and 48% from deep against North Florida, a less challenging opponent defensively.

UCLA was without Xavier Booker against North Florida, while Filip Jovic has yet to play this season because of an ankle sprain. The team will need to establish a physical presence in the paint, control rebounds and finish near the basket, particularly before facing the Big Ten’s stronger frontcourts.

The Bruins also need to limit opposing stars. Arizona forward Ivan Kharchenkov scored 38 points and collected 10 rebounds in 38 minutes. While the rest of Arizona produced less, UCLA will need to prevent similar individual scoring bursts as it moves through the season.