UCLA advertised an ugly sweater contest for Saturday night’s game against Fresno State, but the Bruin team experienced something even uglier on the court early in the game.
The Bruins entered the first media timeout of what would ultimately become a 91-78 win up by four, thanks to turnovers aplenty from the visiting Bulldogs. Shortly thereafter, however,UCLA found itself in a six-point hole nearing the close of the first half.
UCLA then mounted a furious comeback, spearheaded by freshman guard Jordan Adams, in the waning minutes of the first half. After a 16-5 run, the Bruins found themselves up 39-36 heading into the tunnels.
Fresno State (5-7) stayed within striking distance of UCLA (9-3) before the Bruins established an insurmountable lead late with big games from their freshmen.
Adams and freshman guard Shabazz Muhammad both broke the 20-point barrier with 25 and 27 points, respectively. Not to be outdone by his fellow freshmen, guard Kyle Anderson fell just three assists short of a triple double after putting up 20 points and 17 rebounds. The three key freshmen led the way once again, scoring 72 of the Bruins’ 91 points.
Compiled by Chris Nguyen, Bruin Sports senior staff.